MRI Scans (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

What is an MRI Scan?

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is the newest way to view the human body since the CT ("CAT") scanner was invented. Unlike CT scans, MRI does not use radiation in the conventional sense of the word, rather, it combines the use of a large magnet and radio waves. The hydrogen atoms in the patient's body react to the magnetic field, and a computer analyzes the results and makes pictures of the inside of your body.

How do you prepare for an MRI exam?

You may eat and drink as usual, unless you are to have a scan of your abdomen or pelvis. Only then should you have nothing to eat or drink for 6 hours before your test. You should, in all cases, continue to take your medication. When you arrive for your exam, you will be asked to change into a hospital gown. Buttons, zippers, and other metal objects will affect the pictures. Please leave as much jewelry at home as possible. You should wear little or no eye make-up as this can affect the pictures also. All patients are interviewed prior to the exam over the telephone and/or at the time of the scheduled exam.

What happens in the scan room?

The MRI scanner consists of a large, donut-shaped magnet with a scanning table. The technologist (the person who takes the pictures) will position you on the table, and then move the table so that the area of interest is in the center of the machine's "tube." This tube remains open on the end; you are not "closed in." During the exam, you will hear a series of loud knocking sounds. You must remain very still at this time, as this is when the pictures are being taken. Ear plugs will be supplied at the time of your exam or you may request piped in music for your personal comfort.

Will it hurt?

No. MRI is a painless exam. You will hear loud noises, however, so you may want to wear ear-plugs or headphones, which we can provide.

What should you do if you are claustrophobic?

The answer to this depends on to what degree a small space makes you feel uncomfortable. If you have difficulty getting on an elevator, or dislike being in a room without windows, then you should inform us when we contact you. The Graziadio Radiology Center MRI unit features an enlarged scanner opening which helps patients feel less confined. Department personnel will help decide what is the best method for you to take the MRI exam. If you have any doubts about this test, please call us between the hours of 8:00 A.M. and 5:00 P.M., Monday through Friday, at (310) 517-4608. We have many options available to help make this as pleasant a situation as possible.

How long will it take?

Each test is specifically tailored to your needs. Several pictures may be needed to complete the exam. Each picture can take anywhere from a few seconds to fifteen minutes. A full exam could take anywhere from twenty minutes to an hour. The length of the exam depends on the area being tested.

No metal, please!

The presence of metal objects may affect the picture. Please be sure to inform the technologist or the radiologist if you have had any metal objects within or on your body, such as pacemakers, aneurysm clips, or a prosthesis, including hearing aides. If you have any questions, please call the Graziadio Radiology Center.

How to get your results

First the films will be viewed by a radiologist, who is a doctor specializing in analyzing these exams. Then the radiologist will send a report to your own doctor. You should ask your doctor to discuss the results with you. If you need a copy of your films, inform the technologist at the time of your exam.

Directions

Your appointment is on the first floor in the radiology department. Enter the Graziadio Radiology Center entrance and proceed to the Graziadio Radiology Center reception desk between 7 a.m. and 6 p.m. Monday through Friday. Evenings (after 6 p.m.) and weekends enter through the Registration entrance and a volunteer will direct you to the Graziadio Radiology Center reception desk.