Procedures - Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Preparing for an Exam | What to Expect During an Exam

Our clinical staff includes board certified radiologists and MRI technologists with advanced training in MRI. We offer daytime, evening, and weekend appointments to accommodate your scheduling needs.

Preparing for MRI Exams

Precautions
An MRI requires the patient to lie still to complete the exam. Small children, claustrophobic patients and/or those with severe pain or physical limitations may require sedation to adequately have an MRI exam. Please call our facility at (818) 710-6011 if you have a condition that might prevent a MRI exam.

Possible contraindications include:

	Pacemaker
	Some aneurysm clips
	Inner ear implants
	Early pregnancy
	Bone or neuro stimulations
	Metal shavings and / or BB's in your eyes
	Some physical limitations

Again, if you have any questions regarding the information above, please contact our facility and speak with our technologist prior to your scheduled exam.

top of page

Plan ahead
	Remove or leave jewelry and / or metal objects at home. Remove keys and watches before your examination. Strong magnetic fields can erase the information on credit cards. Gold wedding rings are non-magnetic and may be worn. Lockers are provided if needed.
	If possible, remove eye make up, wigs, hairpieces, hair extensions and hairpins. Materials in these products can interfere with accurate interpretation of your images. Dressing rooms are available on site.
	Bring your most recent x-ray, CT or MRI scans. Bring your health insurance information, physician referral and any necessary forms.
	Check in 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time to register for your MRI exam and complete screening forms.

top of page

What to Expect During MRI Exams
	MRI examinations are painless. All MRI exams involve strong magnetic fields. For your safety, each MRI appointment requires completion of a screening form to identify any condition you may have that could prevent a MRI examination
	Before your scan, our MRI technologist will review your medical/allergy history and answer any questions you may have. We will keep you informed and support you throughout the study. We will be there to alleviate any fears you may have about the procedure.
	Some MRI examinations require the use of intravenous (IV) contrast to enhance the results of your study. This injection, performed by a radiologist nurse or technologist, is placed in a vein in your hand or arm. Contrast reactions/allergies to the MRI contrast agent, Gadolinium, are extremely rare.
	You may be asked to change into a gown before your examination to avoid possible magnetic interference from buckles, snaps, zippers, earrings or silk screening.
	You may need x-rays of the orbits (eyes) to exclude the possibility of metals shavings. This will only be necessary if occupationally exposed to such.
	Your MRI scan will take place in a specially designed room. You will be helped to lie down on a padded table. The body part to be studied is positioned in the center of the magnetic field.
	While the machine is in operation, it is normal to hear intermittent humming and thumping sounds. An intercom system in the room will enable you to communicate with the technologist at anytime during your scan. All rooms are air-conditioned, and listening to music is optional in our department.

top of page