MRI

About the Procedure

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive procedure used to diagnose medical conditions utilizing a magnetic field and radio frequency waves; creating detailed images for nearly all body structures. These scans can detect abnormalities more accurately and clearly than other imaging tools such as X-ray, ultrasound, or CT. Identifying cancerous tumors, blockage of arteries, reproductive disorders, breast cancer, and implanted devices are some valuable uses for MRI. Images obtained from an MRI scan are of thin slices of body tissues. Although they appear in various shades of grey like X-rays, the technology is based on manipulating atoms to produce a strong magnetic field which is detected by the scanner. The resulting image is more detailed than other technologies. A computer interprets the scans and creates a picture which can be viewed on a computer, printed, copied to a CD, and/or transmitted electronically.

A radiologist or technologist performs an MRI on hospital in-patients or in out-patient facilities. A patient lies on a movable table leading into a cylindrical-shaped tube which is only a little wider, deeper, and higher than a human body. MRI machines are now available with open sides and others which allow for placing only the part of the body to be scanned, e.g., legs, into it. Patients are held in position with Velcro-padded straps; bolsters may be added for support and comfort. Devices capable of sending and receiving radio frequency waves are placed near the area to be scanned. For scans requiring the patient to swallow contrast material or receive an injection of contrast into the bloodstream, an IV line will be set-up when the patient is lying on the exam bed. The table is then moved into the tube, either all or part of the way, and usually does not move during the procedure. During the scan, which lasts between 15 and 45 minutes, noise emanates from inside the cylinder as the radio frequency waves are activated. It can be loud so ear plugs or headsets playing music may be offered by the technologist. Patients with claustrophobia or physical conditions creating pain while lying still may be sedated. After the technologist has completed the scans, he/she will look them over for clarity and precision before releasing the patient from the table.

What to Know Before the Procedure

The MRI procedure is painless and there are no known side effects, either short or long term. It does not use ionizing radiation like X-rays. If contrast material is used, there is a potential for an allergic reaction which can be resolved immediately by attending personnel. The contrast material can be difficult for the kidneys to eliminate, therefore, patients with kidney disease need to alert the technologist. An MRI is contraindicated for pregnant women.

There is little preparation for a scan so, unless told otherwise, the patient may follow their regular daily routine, diet, and medication administration. When the abdomen or pelvis is scanned, patients may be asked to restrict their food and fluid intake prior to the procedure. If a patient will be sedated for the procedure, it is advisable to have someone else drive at discharge.

What to Know After the Procedure

Patients can leave the facility as soon as they feel comfortable and may resume normal activities immediately. Those who have been sedated or received contrast material will be monitored until any ill effects have subsided and they are able to leave safely.

A radiologist reviews the images and prepares a report on his/her findings for the patient's doctor. This report and the images may be available through an internal network or the Internet which allows the referring doctor and the patient to look at them. A follow-up conversation between patient and doctor will involve treatment plans, medication, and/or surgery, as necessary.

If you Need to Travel Outside of your Local Hospital

An MRI scan takes less than an hour in most cases, requires no preparation, has no side effects, and all normal activities can be resumed immediately. Nothing about the procedure would directly inhibit traveling either short or long distances to have it performed. The most important factors in determining where to have this procedure performed would be overall cost, travel time, and skill of the radiologist or technologist, as well as personal preference.