What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)? MRI is a very advanced medical imaging technique which produces very clear pictures or images of the human body. It provides an excellent way to diagnose diseases of the brain, spine, skeleton, muscles, joints, abdomen, pelvis and blood vessels How does MRI work? The human body is made up of millions of atoms which are magnetic. When placed in a magnetic field, these atoms line up with the field, much like a compass points to the North Pole. Radio waves, tuned to a specific frequency, tip these tiny magnets away from the magnetic field. As they tip, they gain energy. When the radio waves are turned off, the atoms try to realign with the magnetic field, releasing the energy they gained as very weak radio signals. A powerful antenna picks up these signal and sends them to a computer which performs millions of calculations to produce a black and white image for diagnosis. Our MRI offers maximum patient comfort and shorter exam times. The system has a spacious, well-lit opening on both ends, attractive design and soft colors which produce a friendly environment that helps to relax patients, reduce their anxieties and minimize claustrophobia. How Should I Prepare for the Exam? Eat normally. Take your usual medications unless your doctor gives you other instructions. You may find it easier to relax if you avoid drinking coffee or other caffeinated beverages. Wear comfortable clothes. Bring any pertinent X-rays, CT scans or previous MRI exams. Bring your insurance identification card if you have one. What is the Exam Like? The exam usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. It consists of several imaging sequences lasting 2 to 6 minutes each. You'll be asked to remove your eyeglasses, watch, jewelry, credit cards, dentures, hearing aids and any other metallic objects you are carrying. Then, the technologist will help you lie down on a cushioned table. A device called a "coil" will be placed over or under you. It is specialized to produce the clearest picture. When you are comfortably positioned, the table will move through the magnet. The technologist will then step into the control area, while staying in constant contact with you both visually and through an intercom. As the exam proceeds, you will hear a muffled thumping sound for several minutes at a time. Relax and lie as still as possible. Any movement during this time will blur the picture. Will I Need an Injection? in most cases an MRI exam does not require any injections. In some situations, however, a substance known as a contrast agent may be needed to enhance the ability of the MRI to see into your body. All contrast agents are FDA-approved and are considered safe. Very anxious patients may be given a sedative to help them relax and lie still during the exam. If you think you will require a sedative, you will need to get an order from your doctor and bring someone to drive you home. Is There Any Risk? Magnetic Resonance Imaging is very safe. There are no health risks associated with the magnetic field or the radio waves used by the machine. However, some special circumstances limit the use of a magnetic field, so it is important for you to tell us if any of the following applies to you or someone accompanying you into the exam room: cardiac pacemaker or artificial heart valve metal plate, pin or other metallic implant intrauterine device, such as Copper-7 IUD insulin pump or other infusion pump aneurysm clips previous gunshot wound inner ear implant ever been a metal worker (had metal in eye) permanent (tattoo) eyeliner Any metallic substance on your person can affect the quality of the diagnostic images. It can also cause discomfort or injury to you when placed in the magnetic field, and may exclude you from the exam. How Will I Get the Results? We will send a written report within 48 hours to your doctor. You and your doctor can then discuss the results, and how they apply to your medical care.