Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

What is a MRI scan?

Magnetic resonance imaging (also known as MRI) is a type of scan that uses a large, powerful magnet, radio waves and a computer to provide detailed images of various internal structures, such as bones, organs, blood vessels and other soft tissues. A MRI may be ordered in instances where ultrasound, CT or x-rays are unable to provide adequate detail of the area being scanned. The MRI machine looks like a large tube that is open on both ends with an examination table that moves into the opening.

MRI scanner at UI Hospitals and Clinics

What can I expect during a MRI scan?

Clothing and Other Accessories
Depending on the type of scan you are having, you may be asked to change into a hospital gown. In some cases you may be able to wear your regular clothing, so you’re encouraged to wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothes that do not have any metal fastenings, such as snaps, zippers or hooks. Because they can interfere with the magnetic field, you cannot enter the MRI unit with any metal or electronic items. Some of these items include:

• jewelry and watches
• hair accessories with metal pieces, such as hairpins and barettes
• clothing with metal fastenings, belt buckles
• removeable dental work
• hearing aids
• credit cards, pens, loose change

Tell your physician or technologist if you have any implanted devices, such as:

• cochlear implants
• pacemakers
• metal pins, surgical staples, screws or plates
• artificial limbs, joints or heart valves
• intrauterine devices (IUDs)
• penile implants
• aneurysm clips or stents

Administration of Contrast Solution (Dye)
Some scans require the administration of an intravenous contrast solution. Contrast solution is a dye that makes the internal structures of the body more visible on a scan. If your scan requires a contrast solution, the technologist will start an IV before the scan. In rare instances patients experience an allergic reaction to the contrast, and some patients may experience nausea or pain at the injection site.

Scanning
The technologist will help to position you as comfortably as possible on the examination table. Because the MRI machine is somewhat noisy, you will be given ear plugs to wear during the scan. The technologist will step into an adjacent room where the controls for the MRI are located, but they will still be able to hear and see you. The examination table will then slide into the tube. You will be asked to remain still while the MRI machine takes a series of images. Total examination time can take anywhere from 40 to 90 minutes.

What should I do to prepare for a MRI scan?

Your healthcare provider will give you a list of instructions to follow for your particular exam type. Certain types of exams may require that you not eat or drink for a period prior to the exam. Contact your healthcare provider if you have any questions.

What if I am claustrophobic?

Some people with claustrophobia have difficulties with MRI scans. Notify your doctor if you have any concerns about claustrophobia before your examination. Your doctor can prescribe a mild sedative or discuss other possible alternatives with you.

Are MRI examinations safe?

Because patients are not exposed to any radiation during the scan, MRI examinations are considered very safe. There is a slight risk of an allergic reaction to the contrast, so let the technician know if you experience any itching or swelling during the exam. Another side effect that can occur is nephrogenic systemic fibrosis, which happens in rare instances with the use of certain kinds of contrast in patients with kidney disease. If you have questions or concerns, please discuss them with your doctor or radiology technologist prior to the exam.

When will I get my results?

Once the technologist has obtained all the images needed, those images will then be sent to one of our staff radiologists. The radiologist will review the scan on a computer and send the results to your physician. Your physician will then discuss the results with you.