What does it do for you?
MRI, Magnetic Resonance
Imaging, is a method used by physicians to look inside the human body
to obtain diagnostic information. Incorporating an advanced technology,
MRI produces images of the anatomy without the use of radiation as in
X-Ray and CT scanning.
MRI utilizes the physical properties of magnetic fields, radio waves and
computers to generate images of the soft tissues within the body in any
plane. This technique is now commonly used as a primary diagnostic tool.
It can help provide a quick and more accurate diagnosis for your physician
which in some cases can reduce the need for exploratory surgery and other
diagnostic procedures which might have associated risk.
MR is a non-invasive procedure, and there are no known side or after effects.
The procedure is painless; in fact, you won't see or feel anything. A
faint knocking sound will be heard, which is simply the imaging process
in operation.
The benefits of magnetic resonance imaging are many, with new applications
continually being developed through on-going research. The procedure is
used for all parts of the body and is effective in the clinical evaluation
of the following conditions:
Brain Disorders
Traumatic Injuries
Eye Abnormalities
Spine Diseases
Tumor Detection
Liver and Other Abdominal Diseases
Knee and Shoulder Injuries
Musculoskeletal Disorders
Facial/Neck Abnormalities
Infection
Blood Flow and Vessel Disorders
How does MRI operate? What to expect.
MR images are formed
by the computer processing of signals that are emitted by body tissue.
These signals are generated using a safe magnetic field in combination
with radio waves of a specific frequency. Different tissue characteristics
are revealed through this process and translated into different contrast
levels on the image.
The procedure typically will last anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, depending
on the type of information required by your physician. All that is required
of you is to be still as possible during the exam. In fact, some patients
fall asleep during their MRI exam.
You will be easily seen by the technologist at all times. For your convenience,
an intercom system is built into the magnet so that if you should need
anything at all, the technologist will be right there.
In certain instances, a contrast agent may be administered to enhance
the study. There are no extra precautions should the doctor require this.
Consult the doctor or technologist to answer any questions you might have.
What do you have to do?
Please bring your updated
insurance cards.
Pre-certification or authorization for MRI from your insurance company.
A prescription from
your referring physician is requested.
No special preparation
is required prior to an MRI exam. You may eat normally and go about your
daily routine. Continue to take any medication prescribed by your doctor
unless otherwise directed.
Because of the magnetic field, you will be greeted by the technologist
who will meticulously screen you for your exam by asking you to remove
your jewelry, watches, glasses, and earrings. Also remove any magnetic
objects from your pockets such as keys, coins, credit cards, and cell
phones. Please remove hair pins from your hair.
You may also be asked to remove make-up, dentures and wear a hospital
gown to avoid magnetic interference from belt buckles or zippers.
Once you are situated onto the table, the technologist will make sure
you are comfortable, it is important to keep still. Breathe normally,
as there is nothing about the procedure to make you uncomfortable. The
only thing you will notice is a faint knocking sound which represents
the changes in the magnetic field. Once the exam is over, the technologist
will assist you out of the scan room.
MRI Risks
Because of the potential harmful affects associated with all metallic
objects in a magnetic field, you should check with your physician or MRI
technologist if you have had any brain, ear, eye or other surgeries or
any of the following:
Pacemaker
Neuro-stimulator (Tens-unit)
Metal Implants
Aneurysm Clips
Surgical Staples
Implanted Drug Infusion Device
Foreign Metal Objects In The Eye
Shrapnel or Bullet Wounds
Permanent Eyeliner
If you are pregnant, you should notify your physician.