What is a MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) Scan?
What is a MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) Scan?“Lift your legs up. Put a pillow underneath to keep them comfortable.”Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, is a test that uses powerful magnets, radio waves, and a computer to takedetailed pictures inside your body.“It's most commonly used in the joints and in the brain and the spine. We use it in the brain and the spine to lookfor stroke, sometimes for tumors. And then for degenerative disease that can cause back pain.”-Dr. AaronHattaway, MD, RadiologistBecause an MRI machine uses very strong magnets, having any metal on or inside your body could be dangerous. So,before the test, tell your provider or the technician if you have an artificial joint or heart valves, a pacemaker orimplantable defibrillator, metal clips, an eye or ear implant or tattoos that might contain metal. Also let your providerknow if you’ve recently had surgery or any serious health problems, if you might be pregnant or if you’reclaustrophobic - that is, fearful of enclosed spaces.“The MRI is an enclosed space. If you have a fear of enclosed spaces, you can ask your doctor to recommend asedative for you. You take that a half an hour before the exam to help relax you and get you through theprocedure.”-Gregory Capulto, MRI TechnologistBefore the test, remove any jewelry, electronics or anything else that might contain metal. For some MRI scans, you’llfirst get an injection of contrast dye.“If there is something in your body that we want to get a better look at and separate it from the surroundingtissue, so we can differentiate it from the surrounding tissues, IV contrast is very helpful for that.”- Dr. AaronHattaway, MD, RadiologistDuring the test, you’ll lie on a table that slides into a long, narrow tube. You’ll need to hold very still during the test, soyou don’t blur the images.“The MRI is very safe. We'll make you as comfortable as possible. It does make a lot of noise. We can give youheadphones and ear protection if needed.”- Gregory Capulto, MRI TechnologistIn another room the images being taken will appear on a computer screen. The whole exam will last between 20 and60 minutes. Then you can go home.“If your results are normal, you may not need to do anything else, but if the test picks up a problem, you may needadditional tests. You should be sure and ask your provider so that they can give you guidance as to additionaltests, treatments or any other follow up that you may need.”- Dr. Aaron Hattaway, MD, RadiologistPage 1 of 1This program is for informational purposes only. Publisher disclaims all guarantees regarding the accuracy, completeness,or suitability of this video for medical decision making. For all health related issues please contact your healthcare provider.PRG5318798 EN WhatIsAMRIMagneticResonanceImagingScan.pdf© The Wellness Network
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