Magnetic Resonance Imaging Information
What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging, also known as MRI, you may ask? Well, an MRI scan is actually a powerful medical imaging method. Specifically, it uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the organs and tissues inside the body.
Moreover, an MRI scan does not use ionizing radiation, which makes it a much safer option for frequent imaging. In comparison, ionizing radiation is widely used in medicine, research, and industry, and it typically includes X-rays, gamma rays, and certain types of particle radiation that are not very safe.
Furthermore, magnetic resonance imaging is widely used to diagnose and monitor various conditions. For example, it helps doctors with brain and spinal cord disorders, as well as heart and blood vessel diseases. Lastly, Magnetic Resonance Imaging is also used to pinpoint joint or spine injuries, abdominal, cardiac, musculoskeletal and neurological conditions, or perhaps tumors in different organs. However, keep in mind that a CT scan is quicker and more ideal for taking images of particular body parts, such as the lungs.
After the MRI scan procedure is completed, the images will be displayed on a computer monitor. Then, these images will be examined closely by a technician. Furthermore, the images can be transmitted electronically, so they can be sent directly to your doctor. In addition, they can also be printed out for you to keep. Finally, if you prefer, the images can be copied to a CD for you to take with you.
Do you have any Implanted Devices?
We ask this question for safety reasons because specific implants are prevented from having an MRI Scan. As explained earlier, the MRI technology uses a massive magnetic field and will negatively affect you if you have any METAL implants.
Our technicians and office staff will ask you these questions to obtain information to make your procedure safe, efficient, and accurate. If you are wearing any of the following or other types of implants, please tell us:
- Neurostimulators
- Brain aneurysm clips
- Middle ear prostheses
- Prosthetic device (i.e., hip or knee replaced)
- Cardiac pacemakers
- Old pacemaker wires
Lastly, during your MRI Scan procedure, please also do not wear any eye makeup or hairspray because sometimes such chemicals may contain metal, and again, metals will cause problems in the MAGNETIC Resonance Imaging.
What NOT to Take or Bring to Your MRI Scan
Please don’t forget to bring your insurance card, any related insurance forms or pre-approvals, and your prescription list to your MRI Scan appointment. Additionally, if you have completed any previous imaging studies, please remember to bring the film or CD-ROM from those tests, such as X-rays.
Furthermore, you don’t need to take anything else with you. Specifically, you won’t need anything except for the gown we will provide for you during your procedure. Also, we will give you a headset with calming music, which will help you stay calm and relaxed for a successful scan.
Before, During, and After Your MRI Scan
Please arrive 15 minutes earlier than your scheduled appointment so that our office has enough time to register you and complete any necessary paperwork, forms, or questionnaires. In addition, we will provide you with a private dressing room that includes a locker for your clothes and valuables, along with gowns to wear during your exam. Therefore, you need to remember that you cannot have any metal on you. This means you must remove your wallet, watch, jewelry, hairpins, body piercings, and even eyeglasses or other metallic objects before your exam.
During the scanning process, the Magnetic Resonance Imaging Equipment will make quick and loud thumping noises as it takes images. So, it is important that you do not move during the process and instead, breathe calmly and naturally. On average, depending on the type of exam, the scan may take between 30 and 60 minutes.
After your procedure, our technician will kindly help you step out of the MRI machine. Then, they will accompany you back to your dressing room and locker. Additionally, please remember to receive the film or CD-ROM from any prior tests you brought with you, which you can get from the front desk office staff.
Lastly, Premier Diagnostics of Essex will share your MRI scan results not only with you and your referring doctor, but also with anyone else you have authorized in our records.
