Procedure
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is an imaging tool with a large magnet that uses radio waves and a computer to make detailed cross-sectional pictures of the body. The results are 2 and 3 dimensional “slices” or scans through a body part showing body tissues or vessels. MRI uses no x-ray radiation and is considered harmless. MRI scans are able to detect or show better detail of some conditions when compared with regular x-rays. If you have a pacemaker or brain aneurysm clips and certain heart valves you CANNOT have this exam. If you have a history of welding or have had an injury to your eyes involving metal, you may need to have a screening exam before entering the MRI room. For your safety, it is imperative that you notify the technologist immediately if any of these circumstances pertain to you.
Expectations
Upon arrival to the UMC Outpatient department, you will be registered and then escorted to the MRI Department, where an MRI Technologist will greet you and take you to a dressing room. There, they will obtain a brief medical history, discuss your symptoms and fully explain your procedure to you. MRI Technologists have received advanced training in Magnetic Resonance Imaging and are registered by The American Registry of Radiologic Technologists (ARRT) and/or the Nuclear Medicine Technology Certification Board (NCTCB). Every two years they must complete 24 CME (Continuing Medical Education) credits in their field. The technologist works with a specially trained Medical Doctor called a Radiologist to ensure accurate results.
Examination
You will lie on a table that will slide a portion of your body into the center of the magnet. The technologist will carefully position you for the ideal image quality. For the best results, it is very important to hold still and follow all instructions. You will hear different series of thumping and knocking noises while the pictures are being taken. These scans can range from seconds to a few minutes to complete. You may receive contrast through an IV during your exam to allow for better visualization of specific body parts. If you are over the age of 50 or have a history of kidney disease, it will be necessary for you to have a simple blood test called a Creatinine level prior to receiving this IV contrast. It will take approximately 30-45 minutes to receive the results of this blood work, but it is required before initiating your procedure.
Preparation
You should eat as you normally would and take all of your medications as directed unless specified otherwise by your physician. Please bring a list of your current medications, including any over-the-counter drugs, along with dosages and how often they are taken. Wear comfortable clothing without any metal or we will provide you with a patient gown. Remove jewelry, hairpins, eyeglasses, hearing aids and anything else that may be affected by the magnet. It is not possible to take your personal belongings with you in to the room, but you will be provided with a locker to secure them in, though we prefer that you keep your valuables at home. If you are required to have a Creatinine level blood test, as mentioned above, it can be done when you come in for your exam. Lastly, please notify the technologist if you are or may be pregnant.
Time
An MRI scan can take 45-60 minutes or longer, depending on the type of scan/scans needed. This allows for the preparation time as well as time for the computer to generate the images. The scanner used at University Medical Center is a “state of the art” 1.5 Tesla short-bore magnet that allows for increased patient comfort by providing quicker, more detailed studies in a less confined space.
Results
After the exam is completed, the Radiologist will study the exam and dictate a report of the findings of the exam. If more information is needed after the scan is reviewed, more scans may be taken. he report is typed and faxed to your ordering physician, typically within one-two days.