Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
What is MRI?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, is an advanced, state-of-the-art method that produces very clear pictures, or images, of the human body without the use of X-rays. MRIs use a powerful, but harmless, magnetic field and radio waves, much like the kind that transmit your favorite FM station. The combination of the magnetic field and radio waves produce detailed images of body structures such as the brain, the spine, and other vital organs.
What is an Open MRI?
In the past, an MRI scan required you to be tested in an enclosed environment that could often be uncomfortable. With the Hitachi Airis II Open MRI you are able to relax in a more open environment during your exam. The magnet is designed to give the same
quality of images without the unpleasant feeling of confinement. Some patients who have MRIs in an enclosed scanner may feel confined, closed-in, and frightened. Perhaps one in twenty will require a sedative to remain calm. Our patients avoid this problem when examined in our "open" design MRI unit. We also permit a relative or friend to be present in the MRI system room, which also has a calming effect.
At Rock Creek, our MRI suite is spacious, with natural lighting combined with our associates’ compassionate care maximizes patient comfort.
MRI provides an unparalleled view inside your body. It has
become the preferred procedure for diagnosing a large number of
potential problems in many different parts of the body.
Physicians use an MRI scan not only in defining anatomy but in
evaluating the integrity of the spinal cord after trauma.
An MRI scan can evaluate the structure of the heart and aorta.
It provides valuable information on glands and organs within the
abdomen as well as information about the structure of the
joints, soft tissues and bone of the body.
Why
is A MRI Done?
How Safe is MRI?
The powerful magnetic field of the MR system will attract iron-containing (also known as ferromagnetic) objects and may cause them to move suddenly and with great force. This can pose a possible risk to the patient or anyone in an object's flight path. Great care is taken to be certain that objects such as "ferromagnetic" screwdrivers and oxygen tanks are not brought into the MR system area. It is vital that you remove any metallic belongings in advance of an MRI exam, including watches, jewelry, and items of clothing that have metallic threads or fasteners.
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The powerful magnetic field of the
MR system will pull on any iron-containing object in the
body, such as certain medication pumps or aneurysm
clips. Every MRI facility has a protocol that, when
carefully followed, will ensure that the MRI
technologist and radiologist knows about the presence of
metallic implants and materials so that special
precautions can be taken. In some unusual cases the exam
may have to be canceled. An example is MRI of the head
when a "ferromagnetic" aneurysm clip is present, because
there is a risk of the clip moving or being dislodged.
The magnetic field may damage an external hearing aid or
cause a heart pacemaker or electrical stimulator to
malfunction. If you have a bullet or other metallic
fragment in your body there is a potential risk that it
could change position, possibly causing injury.
A metallic implant or other object may distort the MR
images or make it difficult for the MRI system to
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"tune" to your body. This may be unavoidable, but if the radiologist knows about it, allowance can be made when interpreting the images. For some MRI studies a contrast material called gadolinium may be injected into a vein to help interpret the exam. Unlike contrast agents used in x-ray studies, a gadolinium contrast agent does not contain iodine and therefore rarely causes an allergic reaction or other problem.
What Do I Need to Do to Prepare for My MRI?
No special preparation is necessary prior to the exam. You will want to wear comfortable clothing that is free of any metal. Because of the magnetic field, you will be asked to leave the following items in a safe place outside the scan room:
- Coins
- Jewelry
- Watches
- Glasses
- Credit cards
- Hearing aids
- Keys
- Hair pins
- Other metal objects
What Should I Expect From My MRI?
The procedure typically will last anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes per study, depending on the type of information required. Bring your favorite CD to listen to while having your MRI. You may also bring a friend or family member to sit with you during the exam.
MRI Precautions:
Due to the potential harmful effects of metal objects in the magnetic field of the MRI, you should check with your physician or MRI technologist if you have had brain, ear, eye, or other surgeries, or any of the following:
- Pacemaker
- Neuro-stimulator (Tens-unit)
- Metal implants
- Intrauterine device (IUD), etc.
- Aneurysm clip
- Surgical staples
- Implanted drug fusion device
- Foreign metal objects in the eye
- Shrapnel or bullet wounds
- Permanent eyeliner
*If you are pregnant please notify your physician.
**Continue to take any medication prescribed by your doctor unless otherwise instructed.
