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Magnetic Resonance (MR) Imaging (also known as MRI) was initially researched in the early 1970s and the first MR prototypes were tested on clinical patients in 1980. MR imaging was cleared by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) in 1984 and its use throughout the world has spread rapidly since. MRI images are formed when signals, emitted by body tissue, are processed by software and turned into clinical images. These signals are generated using a safe magnetic field in combination with radio waves of a specific frequency. Different tissue characteristics are revealed through this process and translated into different contrast levels on the image.
No special preparation is required prior to the MRI exam. You may eat normally and go about your daily routine. Continue to take any medication prescribed by your doctor unless otherwise directed. Prior to entering the scan room for your exam, you will be asked to leave items incompatible with a magnetic field, such as watches, credit cards, keys and other metal objects, in a safe place outside the scan room. You may also be asked to wear a hospital gown to avoid magnetic interference from belt buckles and zippers.
Most MRI exams performed at  average 30 minutes depending on the type of information required by your physician. You can help make your image spectacular by simply relaxing and remaining as still as possible during the exam. In fact, some patients fall asleep during the MRI exam. Our compassionate, experienced technologists will be with you and will be able to see you at all times. For your convenience, an intercom system is built into the MR imager so that if you need anything, our technologist will be right there. In certain instances, a contrast agent may be administered to enhance the study. There are no extra precautions if your physician requires this type of study. Consult our friendly and knowledgable staff at 1-888-332-7674 if you have any questions.
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