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Some illnesses or injuries require an MRI to diagnose underlying issues. MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. A technician in a radiology department typically conducts this test. Learn what to expect and how to prepare for the procedure before your appointment. Preparation for the Procedure Unless your physician instructs you otherwise, you can eat normally and take your typical medications prior to the procedure. Some patients require sedation for this test, which would require dietary modifications for a specific time in preparation. You will be instructed to remove all jewelry, watches, hairpins, eyeglasses, hearing aids, dentures, and hairpieces prior to the examination. If your bra has an underwire in it, you will need to remove this also. It's necessary to wear a hospital gown for the exam. The Scan The machine is long and tube-shaped, with an opening at both ends. The patient lies on a table, and the table slides into the machine through one opening. During the scan, a magnetic field envelops the patient. This field may create noises such as thumping or tapping. Some clinics offer patients earplugs or headphones that play music during the exam. Some scans require the introduction of a contrast material into the body, injected via IV into the arm. The contrast can make it easier to detect some details with the scan. The technician will administer the exam while in an adjoining room, monitoring the patient and speaking with him or her throughout the process. The entire examination could last an hour or longer, depending on the reason for the scan. Patients must lie perfectly still during the entire scan, because moving will interfere with the results. Stopping the MRI Some patients experience claustrophobia due to the enclosed environment of the machine. Physicians may administer sedation for these patients. Patients have an alarm button they can press at any time during the examination to report discomfort or issues to the technician. The technician can then stop the procedure to assist the patient. Getting the Results The radiologist will analyze the images produced by the MRI and then deliver a report to the patient's physician. Once the physician receives a report of the findings, the physician will discuss the report with the patient. The physician will recommend a course of treatment based on the MRI results. People with Special Considerations Some people may need special modifications to have this test. For example, patients with pacemakers, artificial heart valves, cochlear implants, or implanted insulin pumps may need to have special modifications to have the scan. Children may have a difficult time remaining still during the procedure. Some clinics allow children to watch movies, which may help them lie still. If a child still cannot be still for the exam, it may be necessary to administer anesthesia for the procedure. These examinations are painless, but they can be loud and disconcerting because of the need to stay still. After completion, the scan may provide an answer about physical symptoms a patient is experiencing. NJ residents that want quality MRI services visit Hunterdon Radiology. Learn more at http://hunterdonradiology.com/drupal/mri-wide_bore_magnet.
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