Getting an MRI Exam at Delaney Radiology

(Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

What is MRI?

MRI is an exam that combines the power of electromagnetic energy, radio waves, and computerized image processing to create clear pictures of organs and tissues inside the body. In some cases, MRI gives physicians the ability to see body structures that are not visible in other types of imaging exams. Doctors order MRI exams in a wide range of diagnostic situations, including:

Looking for signs of cancer
Detecting signs of disease in the heart and circulatory system
Confirming or identifying the cause of a stroke
Diagnosing injuries or disorders of the muscles, bones, and joints
- A procedure called an Arthrogram may also be used. Arthrography—X-ray guided injection of anesthetic and contrast agent into the joint of interest. The purpose is to better image the internal anatomy of the joint for more accurate diagnosis and surgical planning.

Schedule

AN APPOINTMENT

What should I expect during an MRI?

For some exams, your doctor may order an “MRI with contrast.” This means that you would be injected with or asked to swallow a material to make the part of your body that is being examined more visible in MRI images.
If an injected contrast material is needed, an IV may be inserted in your hand or arm prior to test.
During the exam, you will lie down on a table that slides into the opening, or “bore,” of the imaging unit. Your technologist will help you get into the right position for the area of the body to be examined, and help you get as comfortable as possible.
While the scanner is operating, it is important to lie still. MRI scans usually require more than one “sequence” of images to be taken. Between sequences, your technologist will let you know when you are able to move slightly. Each sequence can take from approximately 2–15 minutes.
The technologist will need to leave the room briefly to start the imaging sequences, but will remain in visual and verbal communication with you throughout the exam.
The entire exam should last approximately 15–45 minutes.

How should I prepare for an MRI?

During an MRI exam, metal objects can create interference with magnetic fields and affect image quality. So it is important to remove all accessories including eyeglasses, hair pins, wigs, jewelry, and dentures prior to the exam.
Tell the technologist if you are pregnant or believe there is a possibility that you could be pregnant.
It is important to notify the technologist if you have any of the following:
- Pacemaker, artificial heart valve, or defibrillator
- Artificial joints such as a hip or knee replacement
- Metal in your body from medical procedures, such as screws, pins, plates, or surgical staples
- Possible metal foreign objects in your body, such as bullets, shrapnel, or fragments from working with metals in trades or activities, such as sheet metal work or milling
- Intrauterine device (IUD)
- Tattoos
- Permanent makeup

If you are claustrophobic, please tell the technologist, who can review options to keep you as comfortable as possible. A sedative may also help and can be considered as an option.

Learn more

Visit the MRI page on RadiologyInfo for more information about MRI, including details on specific diagnostic purposes and MRI scans of different parts of the body.