MRI
What is an MRI?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the organs and tissues in your body.
How Does It Work?
- Preparation:
- Clothing: Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal zippers, buttons, or belts.
- Remove Metal Items: You’ll need to remove any metal objects, such as jewelry, as they can interfere with the imaging.
- Medical Records: Bring any relevant medical documents or instructions from your doctor, including any prior MRI imaging /reports if a comparison is needed.
- Blood test results for Creatinine and BUN will be required within 30 days prior to the exam for patients aged 60 and over, as well as patients with chronic kidney disease, diabetes & hypertension. Please ask your physician to order the blood tests and fax prior to the appointment or bring the results with you on the day of your appointment.
- Pregnancy test is required for patients that are of childbearing age.
- Dietary Restrictions: MRI scans of the Abdomen as well as other MRI scans with contrast will require fasting from food 4-6 hours prior to the exam.
- Inform Your Doctor: Let your doctor know if you have a pacemaker, pacemaker wires, defibrillator, stents, aneurysm clips, battery operated pain pumps, cochlear implants, shrapnel, metal fragments (bullets) or other metal in the body, kidney problems, or are pregnant.
- Preparation:
During the scan
- Positioning: You’ll lie on a motorized table that slides into the MRI scanner, with a large bore, tube-shaped machine.
- Imaging: The MRI machine uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to generate images. The magnetic field aligns protons in your body, and radio waves cause these protons to produce signals that are detected by the machine.
- Contrast Dye: In some cases, a contrast dye may be injected to enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels.
Procedure:
- Stay Still: It’s important to remain still during the scan to ensure clear images. You may be asked to hold your breath for short periods.
- Noise: The machine makes loud thumping or tapping noises during the scan. Earplugs or headphones are usually provided to reduce discomfort.
- Duration: The scan itself usually takes between 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the area being examined.
What to Expect?
- Comfort: The procedure is painless, though lying still might be uncomfortable for some.
- Safety: MRI does not use ionizing radiation, making it safer than some other imaging techniques.
- Results: The images help doctors diagnose conditions, plan treatments, and guide procedures.
After the Scan:
- Normal Activities: You can usually resume normal activities immediately after the scan.
- Follow-Up: Your doctor will review the images and discuss the results with you.
Common Uses of MRI:
- Brain and Spinal Cord: Detecting tumors, aneurysms, and other abnormalities.
- Joints and Muscles: Evaluating injuries and conditions like arthritis.
- Blood Vessels: Assessing function and detecting blockages.
- Abdomen and Pelvis: Examining organs like the liver, kidneys, prostate and reproductive organs.