AHCI :: MRI Exam Preparation

MRI Exam Preparation

If you think you may be claustrophobic, ask your doctor about medications. If medication is prescribed, please bring someone with you who can drive you home after the exam.

Special Conditions
There are certain conditions that may exclude you from being able to have an MRI. They include but are not limited to:

If you have any of the above conditions, please check with your physician regarding eligibility for an MRI.

What Happens during my Examination?

	Eat normally
	Take any prescribed medications
	Wear loose, comfortable clothing with no metal
	Do not wear eye makeup or hairpins
	Do not bring jewelry or credit cards
	Bring your favorite music CD

	Pregnancy
	Pacemaker
	Cochlear implant
	Brain aneurysm clip
	Surgery in the past eight weeks using ferrous metal clips
	Colonoscopy Clips

	The MRI scanner is a cylinder open at both ends and is equipped with lights and a fan blowing fresh air.
	You will be lying down for 30-60 minutes. If you feel this will be difficult, please inform your doctor before the appointment.
	Please inform the technologist if you are uncomfortable in any way before or during the exam. We are here to help you!
	The technologist will talk with you periodically during the procedure and will let you know when your exam is complete.

	Should you need assistance at any time, all you need to is speak.
	You will need to lie still during the exam to allow the technologist to get the clearest images.
	If you feel you need to move during your exam, please check with the technologist first.
	Don't worry if you hear a loud knocking noise at times while the exam is in process; this sound is normal as the computer looks at your body from several different angles.
	Occasionally an injection of a contrast agent, called gadolinium, is required. Gadolinium is most often used when looking for post surgical changes in the spine or for small lesions in the brain or ear canals.
	After your exam, you will be free to go about your daily activities. Your physician will discuss the results of your exam with you.