MRI QUESTIONS AND ANSWERS :: PRINTABLE VERSION What is MR imaging? Magnetic resonance imaging may represent the most significant advancement in medical imaging since the discovery of x-rays. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) provides a way to look inside the body by producing clear anatomical images displayed in any plane, without radiation to the patient, and with a tissue discrimination unrivaled by any other imaging modality. American Health Centers, Inc. continues to respond to the advances in this technology by offering the area health care providers and patients state of the art imaging. What happens when I arrive for my MRI? When you arrive for your MRI, you may be asked to change into a hospital gown and robe and to remove all metal. Your personal items will be secured on the unit. Next you will be greeted by one of the technologists who will perform your exam. The technologist will explain what you can expect during the exam and will work to make sure you are comfortable during the exam. You will always be in contact with the technologist during the exam. After the exam is complete, you will retrieve your belongings, change back into your clothes and be on your way. Are there any injections? Sometimes a contrast material, specific to MR imaging, is used to provide additional information. The decision to use contrast material will be decided by the radiologist and your health care provider. When am I told the results of my exam? Your physician will receive the results of your exam within a few days. What if I am claustrophobic? Not a problem! Most people are amazed with how many options there are to reduce claustrophobia. Our open flare, short bore magnet may be just suited to your needs in the sense that it gives one of the feeling of having the body mostly outside of the magnet. All of the magnets have lighted bores and fans that blow air down the bore so you always feel refreshed. All of the magnets have prism glasses that allow you to see outside the bore, and one of the technologists will talk with you throughout the exam. If these comforts fall short of reducing your anxiety, you may want to speak to your healthcare provider to discuss receiving an anti anxiety medication prior to your exam. We can work with you regarding all the available options. Can pregnant women be scanned? Although there is no evidence that a hazard exists, MR imaging is not generally advised during pregnancy, especially during the first trimester. Nevertheless, pregnant patients are frequently scanned when clinical circumstances warrant it. Can people with metal implants be scanned? In many instances, people with metal implants can be scanned: it just depends on what they are and where they are in the body. One of our technologists will be able to specifically address that issue if it applies to you. How long does the MR exam take? Most of our exams take somewhere between 25 and 45 minutes. One of the luxuries of a high field strength MR system is much shorter exam times compared to those performed on low field, so called, open MRI systems. All of our systems are high field magnets. May I eat, drink and take my medication on schedule? Yes, in most cases you may keep your normal schedule of eating and drinking. You should take any medicine as prescribed since it is not necessary to stop your medications just because you are having the MR exam. What is the procedure if I don't have health insurance? Please check with your doctor. Do I need preauthorization from my health care provider? Please check with your doctor. Is there any health risk associated with MR imaging? There are no known health risks associated with the magnetic field or the radio frequency waves used by the MR system. Will my head be out of the scanner? There are many exams where your head will be out of the scanner, but some (such as brain, spine and shoulder) where your head will be inside the scanner May I wear my jewelry? We try to remove most jewelry except wedding rings. Watches may not be worn in the MR room. We provide a place to secure your personal belongings during your exam. What type of clothing should I wear? You do not need to wear any special clothing. Whether or not you will be asked to change into a hospital gown and robe will depend on what part of the body we intend to scan. Will I be able to drive after my exam? Yes, unless you have taken a sedative or any other medication that would compromise your driving ability. |
