What is MRI and why is it so important? [Top]

MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. It is the newest and most advanced way for doctors to what is happening inside your body. And it does so in a way that has no known harmful effects.

How does MRI work? [Top]

MRI is amazing because it uses two of the most common forces in the world: magnetism and radio waves.

Here's how they are used. First you lie on a padded examination table that slides into a doughnut shaped scanner. The scanner produces a magnetic field. This field causes the hydrogen atoms in your body to line up so that they can receive radio signals from the MR unit. As the MR unit sends these signals, your body responds with signals of its own. These body signals are processed by a computer and turned into images.

How should I prepare for the exam? [Top]

There is almost nothing you need to do to prepare for MRI. You can remain active and work right up until the time of your appointment. If you are on other medications or if you are having other tests, these do not interfere with your MRI exam. You can eat and drink as you normally would. Many of our patients drive to our center, park and walk right in for their MRI exam.

You will be asked to leave metal objects outside the exam room. These can interfere with the testing. Also, to prevent interference from metal zippers, snaps or buckles on your clothing, you'll be asked to change into clothes without any metal on them. You may even wear your own clothes if there is no metal on them.

You also will be asked to leave behind your credit cards because the MRI unit will erase their magnetic codes.

Other items to leave behind: Coins, Jewelry, Watches, Cuff Links, Tie Bars, Metal Objects, Dentures, Partial Plates, Hearing Airs, Pocket Knives and Credit Cards.

What will the exam feel like? [Top]

During the exam you may feel a slight vibration while the machine is taking your pictures, however this is normal and there is no need to be alarmed. You may notice sounds that are similar to a drum beat. Some of these sounds are louder and faster than others. These sounds are actually the rhythmic thumpings of the magnetic fields at work.

Where will I have the exam? [Top]

The MRI exam will take place in a large room where the scanner is located. This room is specially shielded so that outside radio waves can't interfere with the scanner's operation.

Will I be alone during the exam? [Top]

You are not alone during the exam. Technologists will be right outside the room where they can see you through glass panels and can hear and talk with you at all times. You will be informed at all times of what is happening.

You are also welcome to bring one or two family members along who may stay in the room with you during the exam.

How long does the exam take and what do I do while it's going on? [Top]

The MRI will take about an hour, depending on the type of exam requested by your doctor.

All you need to do is to relax and try to stay as still as possible. You may even fall asleep.

What will the images look like? [Top]

To the untrained eye they look a lot like conventional x-rays. But because they are produced with exceptional clarity, they actually yield considerably more information for the trained eyes of your physician and other medical specialists.

The image will be transferred to film for additional study by the radiologist on staff and then will be sent to your doctor. Your doctor will usually receive the results within 24 to 48 working hours.

Can anyone be examined by MRI? [Top]

The only people who cannot be examined by MRI are those with the following conditions:

• A pacemaker or any other electronics implant
• Certain types of heart valves
• Certain types of surgical clips such as cerebral aneurysm clips

There are a few other conditions which may keep you from having the exam such as artificial heart valves or metal shavings in your eyes. If you have doubts about having had metal particles in your eyes, please mention it to our staff. This is very important to your health and safety.

What are the common uses of MRI? [Top]

MRI has proven very useful in diagnosing problems of the brain and spinal system. It is also the test of choice for many joint and sports related injuries such as knee or shoulder. MRI is also used in taking pictures of many other structures in the body.

Presently angiography work is now being done with the MRI machine. This is called MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography) and helps to study the blood vessels of the head, neck and also the abdomen and legs.

New uses for MRI are expected to be developed during the next several years.

Is MRI covered by insurance [Top]

All major insurance companies including Medicare and Blue Cross/Blue Shield pay for MRI just like they pay for any other diagnostic test.