Procedures - MRI with FAQs

What is an MRI scan?

An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan creates detailed images of internal organs, soft tissues, and bones. The scanner’s magnetic field combined with radiofrequency waves and a computer create the images. Unlike CT scans and X-rays, MRIs do not involve any radiation exposure. Sometimes an intravenous (IV) contrast, called gadolinium or GAD, is administered to help highlight the area in the body that is being examined.

What does the MRI scanner look like?

MRI scanners come in many different shapes and sizes. The scanner at Howard Open MRI Center is the most “open” open MRI scanner. We provide quality images in a comfortable, stress-free setting. No claustrophobic tunnels where patients feel trapped and alone. Our spacious scan room allows a parent, friend or other individual to sit alongside the patient during the scan. Many patients are relieved to be next to, or holding the hand of, a loved one during the procedure. The photograph depicts the exact MRI scanner at Howard Open MRI Center. Simply alert our patient coordinators during scheduling if you are nervous about the test and we can suggest ways to make the process more comfortable for you (including the possibility of sedation).

What should I expect during the MRI scan?

Our MRI technologist will be with you for the duration of your scan to conduct your test and to answer questions.
You may be asked to change into a gown.
Your scan time can take 30 to 60 minutes depending on the MRI scan ordered.
The technologist will help arrange you comfortably on the exam table.
You may be administered a contrast agent intravenously depending on the MRI ordered.
The technologist will then move outside of the room to operate the scanner and will watch you from a window. You will be able to speak to the technologist through an intercom system.
An MRI scan consists of multiple scan sequences. For example, a 30-minute MRI may consist of 10 short scans with a couple seconds of non-scanning time in between.
When a sequence is running, you will hear loud tapping noises. Ear plugs are available for your comfort.
While the sequences are running, you will need to lie as still as possible to prevent blurry images. In between sequences, you may move slightly (cough, itch nose, etc.) as long as you do not change position of the body part being scanned.

You may leave immediately after your scan. If you received sedation, you will need someone to drive you home. The facility radiologist will read your images so that your report can be generated.

What should I bring to my appointment?

Your doctor’s order for your procedure, your insurance card(s) and a photo ID.
You may print out and complete all the required forms in advance of your appointment. If you choose to do so, please bring your printed and completed Patient Screening form and Authorizations and Acknowledgements form. Patients whose tests are ordered with contrast should also bring a printed and completed MRI Contrast Consent form.
If you have had previous studies to the same or adjacent body parts at another facility, be sure to bring your images (preferably in CD format) so we can compare the previous study to the new one.

How do I prepare for my MRI?

Alert us during scheduling if you are pregnant or may be pregnant.
If you have worked around metal (i.e. sheet metal worker, steamfitter, welder, etc.) or if you have ever had metal get into or removed from your eye(s), you will need an Orbital X-ray to confirm that there are no fragments in the eye.
If you have a cardiac stent, please be prepared to provide us with the manufacturer and model during scheduling so that we can confirm that your stent is MRI compatible. If your surgeon gave you a cardiac stent card, please have that ready when you call for your appointment.
Be prepared to change into a gown if necessary. If you would prefer not to change into a gown, be sure to wear loose fitting clothing without any metal (including clasps, buttons, or zippers).
Remove all metal and plastic objects that may affect the MR images including jewelry, eyeglasses, hairpins and hearing aids. Removable dental work may also need to be removed.
For some lower extremity studies, you may read a book or magazine.

What should I do if I am claustrophobic?

Alert our patient coordinator when scheduling and we can help you determine how best we can accommodate you. We have several options:

You can bring someone in the exam room with you.
Our technologist can offer prism glasses that give the user the illusion that they are in a less confined space than they are. Many users have reported these prism glasses to be a very effective way of reducing claustrophobia during MRIs.
For some lower extremity studies, you may read a book or magazine.
You may elect to have your referring clinician order oral sedation. You will need to plan to arrive one hour prior to your exam and bring someone to drive you home.

What conditions may preclude me from having an MRI?

Pacemaker or cardiac defibrillator
Brain aneurysm clip
Some stimulators
Metal in your eye

Do I have to fast for my exam?

Certain exams require additional preparations such as not eating or drinking prior to the scan. Below are the preparations for such exams, if you do not see your test listed, there is no preparation involved. Please call our office should you have any questions regarding any preparation requirements for your specific exam.

MRI Pelvis: Do not eat or drink 4 hours prior to your exam.

When is a blood test required in preparation for an MRI exam?

If your study has been ordered “with contrast,” you may be required to have a blood test to ensure normal kidney function. You must have BUN and Creatinine tests (blood work) performed within 42 days of the exam if any one of the following factors applies to you:

60 years old or greater
History of renal or liver disease
History of diabetes treated with insulin or other medications
Hypertension or high blood pressure (even if controlled by medication)
Solitary kidney, solid organ transplant or pending transplant

Our radiologist at Howard Open MRI Center can order the blood test if you have one of the risk factors listed above. We can fax the lab work forms to the facility of your choice.

What is MRI contrast/gadolinium (GAD)?

The contrast agent used in MRI is called gadolinium. This agent is a sterile, clear, colorless solution that is injected into your vein so that certain normal and abnormal structures in the body are easier to see. MRI contrast agents often help detect and characterize abnormalities that may be not be seen without their use. The first half of the MRI study is done without the contrast agent and then a small needle is used to inject the contrast agent for the second half of the study. The injection point is the arm and is relatively painless, similar to a blood test. Additional information is available in our MRI Contrast Consent form.

How do I find out my MRI scan results?

We will fax your detailed report to your doctor’s office within 8 business hours of the study.
If you would like any other doctors to receive a copy of your report, simply alert our staff.
If you would like us to mail you a copy of your report, please alert our staff.

What is an MRA scan?

An MRA (magnetic resonance angiography) scan is done with the MRI scanner and captures detailed images of the body’s blood vessels. More details about MRAs at Howard Open MRI Center can be learned in the MRI details listed above.