We will thoroughly explain the examination and answer all questions you may have. You may be asked to change into a gown and remove any loose metallic objects before entering the MRI scan room.
After being escorted into the MR scan room by a MRI staff member, you will be asked to lie down on a padded table, either feet first or head first depending upon the examination. The table will be gently guided into the magnet by MR personnel.
You will be given a call button to alert the technologist should you need anything throughout your exam. The MRI technologist can visually see you at all times from the control room located right outside of the scan room.
As the machine acquires your images, you will hear a loud knocking noise. To protect against hearing damage, you will be required to wear hearing protection (either earplugs or headphones). For most exams, we can provide you with headphones so you may listen to music of your choice.You are welcome to bring your favorite CD or MP3 (iPod).
After completing a brief visitor screening, loved ones of young children or severely claustrophobic patients can accompany the patient into the scan room during his or her examination. This is safe because MRI does not use ionizing radiation.
In some cases, a contrast material called gadolinium may be injected into your vein to
gain more information.
Please notify the technologist if you have severe asthma or allergies, kidney or liver disease, or are pregnant or nursing.