An MRI scanner uses magnetism and radio waves to produce remarkably clear pictures of the inside of your head, spine or other body parts. An MRI uses a strong magnet equipped with a radio transmitter and receiver. These instruments produce soft-tissue images, which are used by radiologists to distinguish normal, healthy soft tissue from diseased tissue.
You will be asked to change into hospital scrubs and take off all metal items and place them in a locker. Please keep the key with you at all times.
Your technologist will go over a safety screening prior to your scan.
Your technologist will take you to an imaging center where the pictures will be taken.
Depending on which parts of your body are being examined, an IV needle may be inserted into your arm where you will be given a special dye or contrast material to give you doctor more information about the body part being scanned.
You may briefly feel a cool sensation as the contrast material begins to circulate into your body.
You will be comfortably positioned on a padded table that slides in and out of the machine. Depending on which part of your body is being examined, you may enter the magnet head first or feet first.
You will be given some earplugs to wear because you’ll hear a loud knocking sound during the MRI. This sound means the pictures are being taken.
If you are claustrophobic, you may be given an oral medication that has been ordered by your physician. You will need your prescription filled in your pharmacy prior to your appointment. The MRI technologists are not able to administer any type of medication.
At all times during the test, you and your technologist will be able to talk to one another through an intercom system.
It is important that you stay very still while the MRI technologist is taking the pictures because movement can make the images look blurry and unclear.
All MRI exams must be scheduled. Please call 304.399.6700, press option 1, for scheduling.