| What is an MRI Scan? Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)
is a method of looking inside the body. Instead of
X-rays, the MRI scanner uses magnetism and radio waves
to produce remarkably clear pictures of your head, spine
or other parts of your body. What do I need to do to
prepare? No special preparation is needed, unless your
doctor has given you other instruction. Please wear
loose clothing without zippers or metallic parts.
What happens during an MRI Scan? After our
technologist has made sure you are safely screened and
dressed, they will take you into the MRI room. You will
be positioned on the MRI table and the appropriate coil
for your exam will be placed. The table will then slide
into the scanner. You will be able to communicate with
the technologist at all times. For clear pictures, you
will be asked to hold very still. In some cases you may
be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds. While
the machine is taking the pictures, you will hear loud
thumping noises coming from the walls of the scanner.
Ear plugs or listening to music will help dull this.
These thumping noises will start and stop several times.
You must hold still unless the technologist tells you it
is ok to move. The entire exam will take approximately
15 - 30 minutes.
What if I have metal in my body? If it has been in 6
or more weeks we can scan you. If the metal is in the
area we are scanning, it can affect the quality of the
images.
What if I am Claustrophobic? Claustrophobia is
defined as "a fear of being in a confined or enclosed
place." Many people can complete the scan without
medication, keeping in mind that you are not completely
enclosed - our machine is open at both ends. If you
feel you need medication, we can request a prescription
for valium from your Doctor. This needs to be arranged
ahead of time and you will need to come 30 minutes early
and bring a driver to take you home.
What if I am Pregnant? We normally do not scan
pregnant patients, unless there is a serious medical
condition to warrant the scan. EDUCATION WEB SITE:
http://www.RadiologyInfo.org |
