Question 1

What is an MRI and how does it work?

Accepted Answer

MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. An MRI scanner allows physicians to look inside the body without using surgery, harmful dyes, or X-rays. The MRI scanner uses magnets, radio waves and computers to produce very clear pictures, or images, of the human anatomy. MRI images depict soft tissue anatomy far better than any other diagnostic imaging equipment. The fundamental discovery upon which MRI is based was made by Raymond V. Damadian, M.D. in 1971. Dr. Damadian built the world´s first whole-body MRI scanner in 1977, and his company, FONAR Corporation, introduced the world´s first commercial MRI scanner in 1980.

Question 2

Can anyone have an MRI scan?

Accepted Answer

For some people, an MRI can be dangerous, even fatal. Read carefully:

1. Have a Pacemaker? 
You should first confirm that it is safe to have an MRI exam.  Consult with your cardiologist or device representative to make sure your pacemaker is safe for MRI. If you are cleared for an MRI exam, be sure to inform the staff at the MRI center in advance of your appointment.

2. Have a metal particle(s) in your eye(s), or ever had a metal particle(s) removed from your eye(s)?
If yes, be sure to Inform the staff at the MRI center in advance of your appointment.

3. Pregnant or might be pregnant? 
If yes, consult with your doctor to determine if the exam is needed now or can wait until after pregnancy. If your doctor clears you for an MRI exam, an authorization form must be completed by your referring physician(s), including your OBGYN, in advance of your appointment. The interpreting radiologist will then review the case and consult with your physician(s), if necessary.

4. Had heart surgery or surgery of the heart’s valves?
Inform the staff at the MRI center in advance of your appointment.  While it will be likely that it is safe to do the exam, the facility will require documentation to identify the device and determine MRI compatibility.

5. Had brain surgery?
Inform the staff at the MRI center in advance of your appointment.  If any device was implanted during the procedure the facility will require documentation to identify the device and determine MRI compatibility.

6. Have or think you might have a metal object inside your body?
If yes, you might not be able to have an MRI exam. Be sure to Inform the staff at the MRI center in advance of your appointment.

7. Wear a medication patch? 
Inform the staff at the MRI center in advance of your appointment.  The patch will have to be removed for the MRI.

8.  Have a Stimulator? 
Inform the staff at the MRI center in advance of your appointment.  The facility will require documentation to identify the device and determine MRI compatibility.

9. Wear nail polish that contains magnetic particles, such as cat eye gel? Be sure to inform the staff at the MRI center in advance of your appointment

OTHER SAFETY PRECAUTIONS

Tell the Medical Staff if any of these applies to you:
 An Implantable Cardioverter-Defibrillator (ICD)
A Nerve Stimulator (Tens Unit)
A Cochlear Implant
A Drug Pump
Brain Aneurysm Clips
Penile Implant
Eye Implant
An Intrauterine Device (IUD)
Artificial Joints (hip replacement, knee replacement, etc.) 
Dental Fillings and Bridges
Tubal Ligation Clips
Surgical Clips or Staples
Tattoos: Some tattoo inks contain traces of metal. You might feel discomfort or heat in the tattooed area during the MRI exam. If so, you should alert the MRI technologist.

If any of the above applies to you, it may be dangerous for you to have an MRI exam. Be sure to make the technologist and staff at the MRI center aware, and also tell the doctor who prescribed the MRI exam. They will be able to tell you if it is safe for you to have the MRI exam. In most cases you will be able to have the scan, but please leave that decision to the professionals.

Note: Anyone accompanying the patient to any area near the MRI scanner is subject to the same dangers.

Question 3

Is there any danger in having an MRI scan?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Click Here for more information.

Question 4

When will I find out the results?

Accepted Answer

You won't find out at the time of the scan. The results or your MRI examination will be faxed and/or mailed directly to your doctor, normally within a few business days. In turn, your doctor will explain them to you. Technologists are not qualified to interpret MRI examinations, nor are they allowed to, so please don't ask them for their opinions.

You can also find the results of your MRI examination on the Patient Portal.

Question 5

Do I need a doctor´s prescription for an MRI?

Accepted Answer

Yes. Be sure to bring it with you when you come for your MRI exam.

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FAQ

What is an MRI and how does it work?

Can anyone have an MRI scan?

Is there any danger in having an MRI scan?

When will I find out the results?

Do I need a doctor´s prescription for an MRI?