The NeuroMedical Center | Patient Education Library | MRI

A Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan is a painless imaging exam performed in The NeuroMedical Center’s Imaging Center on the 1st floor. This scan uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of tissues, organs, and other structures in your body.

 


WHAT TO EXPECT:

Once arriving for your MRI scan, you will be asked to change into a gown and remove your glasses, jewelry, and other metal items. You may be administered a special dye through an IV to help your physician see the scans more clearly. Because of the noise produced by the scanner, you will be provided with earplugs or headphones. The MRI technologist will help you lie down on an exam table, and once you are comfortable, the table will begin moving through the donut-shaped machine.  You will hear buzzing, clicking, and humming noises.  Try your hardest to lie perfectly still so that the machine can get a clear view. If you move during the scan, the images will be blurry and it may need to be redone. A technician in a room next to you will watch you and the images as they are taken, and will speak to you periodically through a speaker to let you know what is happening during your scan.  You will be provided with a call button should you need anything during your procedure. An MRI scan typically takes 30 minutes to complete.

BEFORE YOUR EXAM:

Please arrive 30 MINUTES EARLY to complete paperwork and prepare for your exam. If lab work is needed, please arrive 1 HOUR BEFORE your scheduled MRI scan.

  • Take your medications as directed with a small sip of water.
  • If possible, bring any prior CT, x-ray, or MRI images with you.

Due to the powerful magnetic force involved in producing an MRI scan, YOU MUST NOT HAVE an MRI scan if you have certain types of implants such as a heart pacemaker.  It is important that you let your technologist know about any implanted objects in your body prior to your exam.

AFTER YOUR EXAM:

When your MRI scan is done, you can go home and resume normal routine. If you were given a special dye, you may receive special instructions. It is recommended that you drink plenty of fluids to help your kidneys remove the contrast material from your body. The physician who ordered your scan will review your images when they are ready in approximately 7-10 days, and will go over your results with you at a follow-up appointment. Your technologist will not be able to provide you with any results at the time of your exam.