Patient Instructions

Information to Help You Prepare for Your MRI

Please wear comfortable, loose clothing. Any items with zippers and/or metal buttons or decorations will have to be removed.

Remove all other metal objects, such as glasses, non-permanent dentures, hearing aids, watches, jewelry, keys, etc.. Credit cards, ATM cards, parking cards, etc. should be left at home as these will be demagnetized by powerful MRI magnets.

You may eat and drink normally before and after your scan, however, please remember that your MRI scan will take anywhere from 20-45 minutes for each area.

Take all routine medications as prescribed unless otherwise directed by your physician.

If your physician has prescribed anti-anxiety drugs or pain medications to take prior to and/or during your MRI scan, you must have someone present to drive you home after your scan.

If a friend or family member will be attending with you, they will not be permitted in the room during your scan. Small children may be accompanied by a parent if needed.

Your MR exam is really quite simple. With the assistance of an MR technologist, you will be positioned on a padded table. Because it is essential that you remain as still as possible, you may be secured with soft Velcro(tm) straps.

The padded table will move smoothly into the magnet opening and your exam will begin. During your MRI exam you won't feel anything. The only thing you'll notice is a knocking or buzzing sound that occurs as the images are being taken. You should be provided with ear plugs to wear during the scan, or an MR compatible audio headset may be available to minimize the noise. The length of your exam is dependent on the type of study being done. Many MRI exams are completed in about half an hour.

An intercom and mirror arrangement in the system allows the MR staff to see and hear you throughout the exam. If you become uncomfortable at any point, just say so. The MR staff will be right there to assist you.

Once the exam is completed, your technologist will bring you back to the preparation room to collect your belongings. And that's all there is to it!