Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a detailed imaging procedure that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to view the internal structures and organs within the human body. An MRI is a painless imaging procedure that provides intricately detailed images for diagnostic evaluation and assessment without the use of ionizing radiation (x-rays).
Patients are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing for their MRI screening. Because an MRI procedure utilizes a powerful magnetic field, patients will change into a gown or scrubs to ensure patients are not wearing anything with metal contents. Metallic fabric or embellishments can compromise the integrity of the imaging and pose safety concerns.
Please leave jewelry, smart watches, earbuds, and any other valuables at home.
Patients will be asked to complete a detailed medical history form prior to the scan in order to identify any surgical implants or devices, Having the specific make and model number of implants allows the MRI technologist to adhere to the implant manufacturer’s guidelines for optimal MRI safety.
For most MRI exams, patients may eat, drink, and take medications as usual. In some instances, patients will be instructed not to eat or drink for up to 4 hours before the scan, and, in those instances, specific instructions will be provided in advance of the appointment.
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MRIs are safe and pose no known health risks. The strong magnetic field and radio waves emitted during the scan are not harmful.
Patients are asked to arrive 15 minutes prior to the scheduled MRI procedure to allow time to register and prepare for the scan. Patients will be asked to wear a gown or surgical scrubs. Information related to medical implants will be reviewed. Before the procedure, an MRI technologist will be available to answer any questions about what to expect during the MRI scan.
For an MRI scan, patients lay on a padded table that slides into the cylinder opening of the scanner during the imaging procedure. Patients are asked to remain still for the duration of the scan as movement can compromise the image quality. If the image is distorted by movement during the scan, the MRI technologist will repeat the imaging procedure to ensure the clarity of the image.
The MRI technologist can see and hear the patient throughout the scan and will provide ongoing communication as to what they are doing and how long each scan segment will last. Earplugs or headphones will be made available to protect the patient’s hearing during the scan. An MRI exam will last 30 minutes to an hour.
An MRI with contrast utilizes an injected material to view blood vessels and abnormalities with greater clarity. The most commonly used contrast agent is gadolinium, a material that is safe and easy to tolerate. Contrast is administered through an IV.
Allergic reactions to contrast are extremely rare. If patients experience any allergic symptoms such as a rash, hives or shortness of breath, immediately notify the MRI technologist. The IV will be removed following the MRI scan. Note: contrast is not used for all MRI scans.
A breast MRI may be recommended in conjunction with a mammogram and ultrasound. Breast MRI's may be appropriate for patients with a strong family history of breast cancer, a Tyrer-Cuzick lifetime score greater than 20%, positive genetic testing, or as a follow up for an abnormal mammogram or breast ultrasound findings. A breast MRI may also be used to assess a possible breast implant rupture.
During a breast MRI, patients will lay on their stomach for approximately 45-60 minutes during the scan. Contrast will be administered through an IV toward the end of the test.
MRI procedures are administered by a board-certified MRI technologist. The technologist does not provide the patients with any type of diagnostic assessment during the screening procedure, but they are trained to capture the best possible images from varying orientations for interpretation by a board-certified radiologist. A radiologist will read the images and provide a written diagnostic assessment of their findings for the referring physician within 24-48 hours of the MRI scan. A copy of the radiologist’s report will be made available to patients via the patient portal. The referring physician will review the results with the patient and will discuss the next steps for care.
Innovative Radiology is dedicated to furthering access to precise imaging and accurate diagnostic assessments to ensure that patients have a clear road map to optimally navigate their health journey.
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Innovative Radiology has earned the gold seal of accreditation from the American College of Radiology® for achieving the highest standards of image quality and patient safety.