What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging?

Magnetic Resonance Imagining (MRI) is diagnostic imaging technology that uses a strong magnet and radio frequency waves to produce pictures or "images" of your internal organs and structures. Because MRI allows your doctor to see inside your body from any angle with great clarity, it is giving doctors a wealth of information more quickly and in many cases, more economically than past test and exploratory surgeries.

Your MRI Exam
Your MRI exam is really quite simple. With the assistance of your MR technologist, you will be positioned on a padded table. It is essential that you remain very still. The MR staff will try to make you as comfortable as possible.

The padded table will move smoothly into the magnet opening and your exam will begin. During your MRI exam you won't feel anything. The only thing you'll notice is a knocking or buzzing sound that occurs as the images are being taken. You should be provided with earplugs to wear during the scan. The length of your exam is dependent on the type of study being done. Many MRI exams are completed in about half an hour.

An intercom or mirror arrangement in the system allows the MR staff to see and hear you throughout the exam. If you become uncomfortable at any point, just say so. The MR staff will be right there to assist you.

Once the exam is completed, your technologist will bring you back to the preparation room to collect your belongings. And that's all there is to it.

Magnets and Metal Don't Mix
When you first enter Crossroads MRI, you must let your MR technologists know if you have a pacemaker, surgical clips, prosthesis, metal implants or any other metal objects in your body. Some implants (e.g., a pacemaker) may be affected by an MR examination. The clinic personnel will then determine whether or not you should proceed with the MR examination.

Any metal materials that might be affected or attracted by the powerful magnet used for MR imaging should be left at home or given to the MR staff for safekeeping. This list includes your watch, coins, keys bobby pins, credit cards, pocket knives, etc.

Pregnancy
Please let your physician know if you are or think you might be pregnant prior to scheduling a MRI appointment.