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Radiology back to Magnetic Resonance Imaging
(MRI)
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT MRI
Do I need a referral for an MRI scan?
Yes. Your doctor must order the MRI scan for you. He/she
will schedule a time that is most convenient for you.
Will I be placed all the way into the MRI
scanner?
You will not be placed all the way into the scanner. However,
depending upon the area being scanned, you will enter either head first or
feet first. For example, feet, ankle, knee or leg MRI scans require
you to go in feet first. All other scans, such as head, spine,
shoulders, or torso require you to go head first. Newer MRI scanners,
such as the one at Salina Regional Health Center, are of a design that is
shorter in length and larger in diameter to help alleviate any feelings of
closeness you may experience while in the scanner.
Is the procedure painful?
No, MRI imaging should cause no pain. Some patients may feel
warmth in the area that is being scanned, however, this is normal. If
the warmth becomes excessive, please notify the technologist performing your
scan.
Can I move or talk during my scan?
In order to obtain the best possible scan, we ask that you not talk or
move during the scan. You may talk with the technologist during breaks
between the scans, however, you must remain still while the scan is being
performed. You will know when the machine is scanning by the loud
knocking noises it makes during the scanning process.
Can I bring someone with me while I'm
having my scan?
You may bring someone into the scanner room with you. You will
both be screened for any metal in or on your body and will be asked to
remove any jewelry or articles that are not magnetically safe. Once
cleared from a medical and safety standpoint, they will be allowed to
accompany you into the scan room.
Why does the MRI scanner make so much noise?
The tapping and knocking noise you hear during your scan is caused by
magnetic coils that switch on and off during the scan. These coils
measure the signal coming from your body in order to make the images that
are used for your diagnosis. Because these coils are switched on and
off rapidly, they vibrate and cause the noise you hear. Since these
noises are often very loud, the technologist will give you some type of
hearing protection.
Will I be able to listen to music while I'm having
my scan done?
Yes. The scanner at Salina Regional Health Center is equipped with
a radio system that allows you to listen to music while having your scan.
You may also bring a favorite CD or cassette to listen to while having a
scan.
What type of metals are not allowed in the MRI
scanner?
No metal is allowed in the MRI scanner, but, there are exceptions.
Joint implants, bone screws and plates are allowed into the MRI scanner,
provided the implants have been in the body at least four to six weeks.
Other implants, such as vascular aneurysm clips or pacemakers, will not be
allowed in the MRI scanner. Metals such as jewelry, watches, earrings,
dentures, partial dental plates, hairpins, hearing aids, keys, coins, or
other loose metal should be removed before going in the scanner room.
If you have any questions regarding metals, please speak with your doctor or
the technologist performing your exam.
Will I need to have an injection during the
procedure?
Not everyone needs an injection for an MRI procedure. Injections
are given only if your physician or the radiologist interpreting your scan
feels that an injection is necessary.
If an injection is needed, what
is injected and how is it given?
If an injection is required to complete your scan, a contrast agent
called Gadolinium is used. This contrast causes the tissues and blood
vessels of the body to be seen more clearly than with conventional,
non-contrasted MRI. Gadolinium is injected into the body through veins
in your arm or hand. Gadolinium is a substance that reacts like iron
in the body, and produces few side effects when used. You may feel a
cool sensation when the contrast is injected. You may also get a
metallic taste in you mouth, however, these effects usually subside in a few
seconds.
Is it safe to have an MRI if I'm pregnant?
MRI is considered a safe exam and does not require the use of radiation.
However, conclusive studies regarding potential hazards to a pregnancy have
not been established. If an MRI is ordered during the first
trimester (12 weeks) of pregnancy, discuss the study with your physician and ask him or her to explain the benefits and
risks associated with this exam.
Can I continue to breastfeed after I receive
an injection of MRI contrast?
Patients are instructed to wait at least 48 hours after injection of MRI
contrast before resuming breast-feeding. Patients may wish to breast
pump their milk and store for use during this waiting period.
How soon will the results of my MRI be
available?
Your doctor usually receives scan results three to five days after your
exam is completed. The technologist performing your scan does not know
the results immediately after the scan is completed. Your physician
will contact you when he/she receives the radiology report and will schedule
a time with you to discuss the results.
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