Preparing for a MRI

Are there any reasons why I should not have an MRI?

Because of the potentially harmful effects associated with some metallic objects in a magnetic field, you should discuss with your physician or our MRI technologist if you have had any brain, heart, eye, ear, or other surgeries. Also, if any of the following apply, please let our MRI technologist know.

  • Metal implants
  • Surgical staples
  • Foreign metal objects in eye, or removed from eye
  • If you have ever been a sheet metal worker or machinest
  • Shrapnel, bullets, or bullet wounds
  • Tattoos
  • Intrauterine devices (IUD)

YOU MAY NOT HAVE THE SCAN IF YOU HAVE THE FOLLOWING

  • Pacemaker
  • Neuro-stimulator (tens unit)
  • Ferrous intracranial aneurysm clips
  • Implanted drug infusion device

If you are pregnant, please notify the MRI technologist

How should I prepare for an MRI?

Although most MRI exams do not require any special preparation, the following procedures require specific preparation:

MRCP: Do not have anything by mouth after 10:00 pm. Do not take any medication, chew gum, or smoke the morning of examination. There will be an injection of contrast for this exam.

MRI Abdomen/Pelvis: Come by our office the day before exam and pick up 2 bottles of Volumen. Do not have anything by mouth after 10:00 pm until the morning of the exam. 2 hours before exam drink 1 bottle of Volumen; 1 hour before exam drink the second bottle of Volumen. You may be asked to drink another bottle of Volumen when you arrive for your appointment. Do not take any medication, smoke or chew gum the morning of the exam. There will be an injection of contrast for this exam.

MRA'S: For every MRA, except for the BRAIN, do not eat or drink anything one hour before exam. You will be given an injection of contrast for this exam.

Any patient that is getting a contrast injection will be asked to refrain from eating or drinking one hour prior to the exam unless otherwise instructed.

You may find it easier to relax if you avoid drinking coffee or other caffeinated beverages before the exam. Since you will be in a large, very strong magnet that is on all the time, you will be asked to remove all loose metal objects and jewelry before being scanned. You may also be asked to change into a gown unless you are wearing clothing that is metal free.

Everyone is asked to complete a detailed questionnaire before the exam to ensure your safety. If you have a pacemaker or defibrillator you are not a candidate for this procedure. Inform the MRI technologist of any implanted device and bring the "card" that talks about the implanted device with you.

What should I expect during the procedure?

The MRI is completely painless and comfortable. Although we have a comfortable MRI, you may still feel claustrophobic. You may want to talk with your referring physician before the exam as the doctor may be able to prescribe a medication to help you relax.

Occasionally, an injection of a solution called contrast material may be needed to visualize the area of interest as specified by your physician. The contrast material used during an MRI scan typically has few or no side effects.

What is the injection?

In some situations, a substance known as contrast agent is required to enhance the ability of the MRI to see into your body. All contrast agents are FDA approved and are considered safe.

How long does an MRI scan take?

The exam can last from 30 minutes to usually no more than one hour.

Is there any risk in having an MRI?

Magnetic resonance imaging is very safe. There are no health risks associated with the magnetic field or radio waves used during the exam. However, any metallic substance on your person can affect the quality of the image.

It is important for you to tell us if any of the following apply to you:

Cardiac pacemaker or artificial heart valve, metal plate, pin, or other metallic iplant, IUD, medication pump, aneurysm clips, previous gunshot wound, inner ear implant, metal in eye or permanent tattoo.

The presence of these conditions can also cause discomfort or injury to you when placed in a magnetic field, and may exclude you from the exam.