|
What is MRI?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is
the use of safe and painless magnetic and radio waves to produce
high-resolution images of internal organs and soft tissue. MRI
helps your orthopedic physician diagnose bone, tissue, joint and
musculoskeletal conditions. Preparing for Your MRI Exam
Please arrive 15
minutes prior to your scheduled MRI exam at VOA's STAR Medical
Imaging. Wear comfortable clothing with no metal buttons or
zippers. MRI exams use a large magnet and metal alters the
results. In some cases, you may be offered a hospital gown to
wear during your MRI exam.
Unless otherwise instructed,
you may eat, drink and take any prescribed medications as usual before
your MRI exam. Remove any jewelry, make-up, prosthesis or cards
with magnetic strips such as credit cards. Depending on the
injury or area being examined, the MRI exam may last from 10 to 40
minutes. You may want to use the restroom before the exam so you
are comfortable during the procedure. An MRI technician will review
a checklist with you before taking you into the MRI room. It is
important to provide as much information as possible to ensure the
accuracy of your exam. Tell your physician or technician if you
are pregnant or if any of the following apply to you:
Your exam may require you to drink
a contrast agent, a liquid that helps enhance the images of your organs
and blood vessels. The agent is safe to consume and will leave
your body when you urinate.
To help you relax during the
exam, feel free to bring your own music CDs. Should your
physician prescribe a sedative for you during the exam, you will need
to arrange for transportation home. You are encouraged to check
with your insurance provider to make sure your MRI exam is a covered
benefit. We will bill your insurance provider for the MRI
exam. You will receive a bill for any unpaid portion of the
exam. During Your MRI Exam
An MRI
technician will assist you onto a table that slides into the MRI
gantry, where the magnet is housed. How far into the gantry you
are positioned depends on what part of your body is being examined. Once
you are comfortably positioned, the technician will leave the room but
will be in constant contact with you via an intercom and will be able
to see you at all times through an observation window. It is
important to relax and lie as still as possible during the exam.
You will hear a series of knocking sounds when the exam begins. This is a normal part of the procedure.
A family member or
friend may stay with you during the exam but will need to be free of
any metal content. Children may not be left unaccompanied.
Please arrange for an adult to be with any children at all times. If
you have any questions or concerns prior to your MRI exam, do not
hesitate to discuss them with your physician or call VOA's STAR Medical
Imaging at 425-656-0711. |
MRI: What You Need to Know 
