Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Magnetic Resonance Imaging – MRI uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field rather than x-rays to provide clear and detailed pictures of internal organs and tissues.  Doctors use MRI to examine soft tissues – like organs, muscle, cartilage, ligaments and tendons. It is also helpful when looking at the brain, abdomen, pelvic region and joints like your knee and elbow. Most MRI exams do not require any special preparation.
You won’t be able to wear anything metallic during the exam. You’ll change into a hospital gown for your MRI procedure and be asked to lie down on a comfortably padded table that moves into the magnet. While the scanner is operating you’ll hear some humming and thumping sounds. You may be given an injection of contrast material to provide a clearer picture of the area being examined. The most important thing for you to do is relax and lie still during the procedure. Your doctor will inform you of the results.
Let your technologist know if you:
- Have a pacemaker – as patients with pacemakers cannot have MRI scans
- Have a history of performing welding or grinding work
- Have any type of metallic implant in your body, e.g., inner ear implant, joint replacement
- Have had any type of brain surgery – especially for an aneurysm repair
- Have any metal fragments remaining in your body from an old accident or war wound
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