MRI

What Is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a radiological imaging technique used to visualize anatomy inside the body. This is done without using radiation or x-rays. An MRI is one of the safest and most advanced imaging techniques available. The exam uses a strong magnetic field and high-frequency radio waves to image the body. The information is gathered and a computer organizes the information into remarkably detailed two or three-dimensional pictures of the body.

Patient Preparation

A staff member from Open Advanced MRI NW will reach out to you to schedule your appointment. We’ll review your exam instructions and go through the safety screening questions with you. Generally, MRI exams don’t require special preparation. With a few exceptions, patients may eat and take their usual medications. Pain medications won’t effect the MRI. For patients who are experiencing pain, lying still for 30 minutes can be difficult. If you think you’ll have difficulties holding still due to pain issues we recommend taking your medication to ensure a successful exam.

You’ll be asked to remove any metal objects which may interfere with the scan (dentures, hairpins or jewelry for example). To avoid having to change into a gown, wear comfortable, metal-free clothing.

At Open Advanced MRI NW, common MRI exams include:

• Arthography
• Brain
• Head and Neck
• Musculoskeletal
• Abdomen
• Spine
• Pelvis (including prostate and female organs)
• Angiography

Please inform Open Advanced MRI NW prior to your exam if you have any of the following:

• Pacemaker
• Aneurysm clips
• Cochlear (ear) implants
• Metallic implants, staples or devices in the body
• Implant of any type (e.g. prosthetic device, pain pumps, nerve stimulators, heart valves, etc.)
• Kidney problems
• History of ear surgery
• History of eye surgery
• History of brain surgery
• History of metal in eye

You should also inform Open Advanced MRI NW if you:

• Are or may be pregnant
• Are breast feeding
• Are claustrophobic (Please contact us prior to your appointment to make arrangements)

History of Previous Exams

Have you had any prior studies of the area we’re going to be imaging? It’s important to give this information to us prior to your exam. Be sure to include the facility name and approximate dates/years of exams. This helps us to locate the correct studies and have them available for our radiologists so they can compare and note any changes that have occurred. If you have a copy of your images, please bring them with you to your appointment.

Your MRI Exam

On the day of your exam wear comfortable, metal-free clothing and remember to remove all metal objects such as jewelry, glasses, clothes with zippers, keys, etc. The magnet can erase credit cards if they’re not removed. If you’re not wearing metal-free clothing, you’ll be asked to change into a gown.

At the time of your appointment, a technologist will take you to a changing room and provide you with a locker for your personal possessions. You’ll discuss your medical history, be told about the scan and have a chance to ask questions before the technologist escorts you into the MRI room.

Although the machine is large and may look intimidating, MRI procedures are pain-free. About 90 percent of scans require you to lie on your back. A coil (a type of imaging device) may be placed near or around the body part being scanned. If a contrast agent is needed, you will be given an IV injection during your exam. Allergic reaction to the contrast is rare but can occur.

Exams last approximately 30-40 minutes for each body part scanned. The scanner makes a loud knocking noise when it’s acquiring images. Earplugs or a headset will be provided to protect your ears from the noise. Each imaging sequence can take anywhere from 30 seconds to seven minutes. During the scan, you’ll need to lie very still because moving will cause blurry pictures. Unless otherwise instructed, breathe normally.

Once the exam is done, the images will be reviewed to ensure the appropriate area was imaged.

Your Results

MRI studies are reviewed by one of our radiologists, who will then dictate a report. For most scans, it takes 24 to 48 hours for your clinician to receive the radiologist’s report. Your doctor will discuss the results of the study with you and make plans for treating any symptoms you may be experiencing.

Are You Claustrophobic?

We’ve been offering OPEN MRI scans since its conception more than 15 years ago. We believe in providing you with the scan you need in the most non-confining environment possible. If there’s anything we can do to make your scan more comfortable, please let us know. We’ll even sit with you during your scan if necessary. We want you to be as comfortable, and confident as possible when you choose Open Advanced MRI NW.

Frequently Asked Questions