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 | Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a safe, technologically advanced medical imaging procedure that provides valuable information about certain medical conditions.
MRI does not use x-rays or radiation. Instead, MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to collect detailed information about the structures of the body. This information is digitally processed, stored and displayed on a specialized computer system. The digital images and data are then studied and analyzed by a subspecialty board-certified radiologist, a doctor who has extensive training and expertise in medical imaging. |
Other MRI Exams and Procedures
Our MRI scanners are able to perform advanced imaging applications to aid in the detection of abnormalities and changes in the body's tissues, organs and structures.
Before Making Your Appointment
Because of the presence of a strong magnetic field, an accurate history is needed. We would like to know if you have any of the items listed below:
- Any brain, ear or heart surgery
- Brain aneurysm clips or coils
- Cardiac pacemaker or defibrillator
- Dentures (held in place with magnets)
- Ear implants
- History of metal fragments in the eye
- History of working with metal (welding, grinding, machinist)
- Implanted drug pumps
- Implanted electronic devices
- Medication patches containing metal foil
- Neurostimulators
- Penile prosthesis
- Pregnancy – known or possible
- Shrapnel or gunshot wound
- Any allergies or sensitivity including medications, foods or latex
- Claustrophobia
- Diabetic
- Hearing aid
- Kidney problems
Medication is available to lightly sedate you for your comfort. You must bring someone to drive you home and you will be unable to drive for 12 hours after the exam.
Patient Preparation
Please arrive 15 minutes early to complete registration. Bring with you: - Previous x-rays
- Your appointment form
- Insurance information, including your insurance card
The majority of MR exams require no special preparation. - Eat normally and continue to take any medication prescribed by your healthcare provider unless you have been given other instructions.
- Wear comfortable clothes without metal fasteners such as zippers, buttons or snaps.
- Bring your favorite CD to listen to during the exam
Patient Experience
Depending on the MRI exam requested, you may be asked to change into a gown and robe. Jewelry, watches, hair clips, piercings and possibly dentures will need to be removed. You will have to leave all items containing metal, valuables and cards with magnetic strips (such as credit cards) in a locker outside of the MRI room.
A highly-skilled imaging technologist will operate the MRI scanner and tell you what to expect. An intravenous (IV) line may be placed in your arm so that contrast material can be injected. Images will be taken before and after the contrast material is injected.
You will be asked to lie on a cushioned, moveable table and may be positioned comfortably with bolsters. The technologist will provide you with headphones to listen to music. Earplugs are also available to muffle the noise.
For the best quality images, you need to be as still as possible during the exam. You will hear a drumming sound as the machine captures the images. MRI exams often include multiple phases or sequences, some of which sound different and vary in length of time. You may be asked to hold your breath for approximately 20 seconds while the images are acquired.
The technologist is immediately available at all times, and can be summoned by using a call button, which will be placed in your hand. You will be in full view of the technologist by means of a window and video camera during the exam. Most exams take between 15-20 minutes to complete. A parent may be in the room during a child's exam.
After Your Exam
You may resume regular activities immediately after your exam.
Your images will be interpreted by a board-certified radiologist specializing in musculoskeletal imaging, body imaging, neuroradiolgy or breast imaging depending on the type of exam performed. The findings will be sent to your healthcare provider. Your healthcare provider will contact you to discuss the results.
High Field MRI is available at: Blaine, Coon Rapids, Maple Grove, Southdale and Burnsville
High Field Open Bore MRI is available at: Coon Rapids
Open MRI is available at: Burnsville |
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