If your doctor has ordered a Magnetic Resonance Imaging scan (MRI) for you, it’s to get highly detailed, 3-D quality views of internal organs and structures in order to localize and diagnose an issue. MRI’s ability to isolate even small abnormalities without the use of ionizing radiation makes this scan a go-to for diagnosing and assessing a huge range of conditions. In the US alone, about 40 million MRI scans are performed each year, making this a very common imaging test.
Like many imaging procedures, MRI requires a certain amount of prep work to promote maximum efficiency and effectiveness. Here are a few pointers to make sure your appointment goes as quickly and smoothly as possible.
Don’t wear metal. MRI works by using radio waves and a very powerful magnet, so it is important to remove everything containing metal, including jewelry, watches, hearing aids, hair clips, bridges, dentures, glasses, hair pieces, etc. Anything of value should be left at home. Everything else will go into a locker. In nearly all cases, you will change into a gown for your scan. In the less common instance where you will be able to wear your own clothes, make sure they contain no metal zippers, buttons, hooks, eyelets, etc. Wear loose, comfortable clothing 100% free of metal.
Don’t apply personal care products. Personal care items like make-up, antiperspirants, powders and lotions may include elements that can interfere with the clarity of your imaging. So, feel free to shower as normal, just don’t apply personal products until after your appointment.
Inform your technologist of pre-existing conditions. If you have metal inside your body, such as implants like a pacemaker, IUD, heart valve or other device, or pins, clips, plates, staples or shrapnel, make sure both your doctor and MRI technologist know about it before your exam. MRI technology has advanced so much that many people with internal metal can still get this test, but certain precautions need to be taken.
Don’t forget your eyes. If you have ever had metal debris forced into your eyes that may still be present, tell your doctor before your appointment. You may need to undergo an exam to make sure there is no metal remaining in your eye before your MRI, to prevent vision damage.
Don’t hold on to credit cards. Having a credit card in your pocket during your exam can destroy the magnetic strip on the back, rendering it useless.
By following these simple rules, you can help ensure that your appointment goes smoothly and its results are clear and precise. While MRI isn’t always as quick as some exams, its level of detail and ability to pinpoint problems early in their course makes this painless, non-invasive exam worth a little inconvenience.
Radiology Associates Imaging is proud to offer the latest and best in leading-edge high-field MRI, utilized by a team of Board-certified, subspecializing radiologists whose members include MRI-fellowship-trained doctors for ultimate accuracy, safety and best practice standards.
Our ACR-accredited MRI technologies include open-bore MRI for larger patients, children and people prone to claustrophobia.
If you need an MRI, you have a choice of providers. With more than 60 years of imaging expertise and service to eastern Central Florida, Radiology Associates is dedicated to strong partnerships with local physicians, and to your absolute physical and emotional well-being.
