MRI of head/neck What is an MRI?
Magnetic resonance imaging is a state-of-the-art technology that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to show detailed pictures from within the body. Used most commonly to show the brain, spine, and joints, this painless technique also helps to uncover tumors or other abnormalities within the body’s soft tissue and organs. Your doctor uses the results from these images to aid in the diagnosis and treatment of an injury or illness.
What is an MRA?
Like MRI, magnetic resonance angiography uses a magnetic field and radio waves for detection. MR angiography is a study of blood vessels. It uses MRI technology to detect, diagnose, and aid in treatment of diseases.
How does an MRI/MRA work?
Lying flat on a cushioned table, the area of your body to be examined will be positioned within a magnetic field while radio waves are repeatedly turned on and off. Your body will react by emitting signals of its own that vary according to the characteristics of the tissue or bone being scanned. The signals from your body are transmitted to a computer that processes the information to produce the image of the scanned area.
MRI of lumbar spine In the MRI room and the examination
You will be asked to change into a medical gown and pants. A locker is provided for your valuables and clothing. In the MRI room, you will be given instructions and made as comfortable as possible. It is important to relax and lie still. You will be given earplugs or earphones prior to the beginning of your exam. The table will slide you into position for your MRI scan. The MRI examination averages between 20 to 30 minutes and is broken up into sequences. The technologist will talk to you before and after each sequence. You are in audio and visual contact at all times. Feel free to ask questions at any time. Some examinations require the use of a contrast-enhancing agent to help visualize different organs and vessels. It does not contain iodine and no special preparation is required.
MRI of knee How do you schedule an MRI appointment?
A prescription is required for an MRI/MRA exam; check with your insurance company if precertification is required, which would need to be obtained by your referring physician’s office. When calling your MRI facility of choice to schedule an appointment, have your prescription, insurance card and precertification information available. This information will be helpful in expediting the scheduling of your exam. You will be asked a series of questions when making your appointment:
Are you claustrophobic?
Do you have a pacemaker?
Do you have aneurysm clips?
Is there metal in your body?
Do you have permanent eyeliner or tattoos?
Have you ever worked with metal?
Have you had major surgery in the last eight weeks?
Could you be pregnant?
If you answer yes to these questions, you will be advised by our staff how to further proceed.
Preparation for your MRI examination
On the day of your exam you should arrive 15 minutes prior to your appointment time. Remember to bring your prescription and insurance card with you. Wear loose, comfortable clothing with no metal zippers or buttons. You can eat normally before the exam; no special diet is required in most cases. Music is provided during your exam. If you have a favorite CD, please bring it with you. You will be asked to remove your glasses, hearing aids, jewelry, keys, watches, coins, hairpins, dental work and any other metallic objects on your body or clothing.
After your MRI/MRA exam
After your MRI exam has been completed, your results will be reviewed by a board-certified radiologist. Note that after your exam you may return to your normal activities, as there are no restrictions. Remember to talk to your physician about the results of your exam.