MRI: What to Expect
Frequently Asked Questions
Why Is An MRI Exam Done?
How Does An MRI Benefit Me And My Medical Team?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is one form of medical imaging used by physicians to obtain clinically useful diagnostic information. Incorporating advanced technology, MRI produces detailed images of anatomy without the use of radiation required with other imaging modalities such as X-ray or computed tomography (CT scan). MRI combines the physical properties of strong magnetic fields with radio waves to produce computer-generated soft tissue images within any plane of the body. This popular imaging technique can be used as a primary diagnostic tool to provide a quick and accurate diagnosis for your physician. In some situations, this procedure can reduce the need for further diagnostic procedures or invasive procedures, such as exploratory surgery, that may have associated complications.
MRI is a noninvasive procedure with no known side effects or after effects. The procedure is painless. In fact, you won’t see or feel anything. A knocking sound will be heard from the MRI machine, which is simply the imaging process in operation. Earplugs or headphones are often provided to make the experience more comfortable, and some facilities even offer the option of listening to music during the scan.
The benefits of magnetic resonance imaging are many, and through ongoing research, new applications are being continually developed. The procedure is used for all parts of the body and is effective in the clinical evaluation of the following conditions:
- Brain disorders
- Traumatic injuries
- Eye abnormalities
- Spine diseases
- Tumor detection
- Liver and other abdominal diseases
- Knee and shoulder injuries
- Musculoskeletal disorders
- Facial/Neck abnormalities
- Infection
- Blood flow and vessel disorders
How Does An MRI Machine Operate?
MRI images are formed when signals emitted by body tissue are processed by software and turned into clinical images. These signals are generated using a safe magnetic field in combination with radio waves of a specific frequency. Different tissue characteristics, including the detailed images of hydrogen and oxygen atoms, are translated into different contrast levels on the image.
A typical MRI exam averages 30 to 60 minutes or longer, depending on the type of information required by your physician. You can help to make your images as clear as possible by relaxing and remaining still during the exam. Some patients even fall asleep during the MRI exam.
What Preparation Is Needed For An MRI Exam?
No special preparation is required prior to the MRI exam. Some exams may require fasting for four hours. Continue to take any medication prescribed by your doctor unless otherwise directed.
Prior to entering the scan room, you will be asked to leave those items not compatible with a magnetic field in a safe place outside the scan room. Some of those items are:
- Coins
- Jewelry
- Watches
- Glasses
- Credit cards
- Hearing aids
- Keys
- Hair pins
- Other metal objects
You may also be asked to remove make-up and dentures. You will be asked to change into a hospital gown for your exam. Other items that may be incompatible are implants and similar items. Check with your physician or MRI technologist if you have had any brain, ear, or eye surgeries or have any of the following:
- Pacemaker
- Neurostimulator (TENS unit)
- Metal implants
- Intrauterine device (IUD), etc.
- Aneurysm clips
- Surgical staples
- Implanted drug infusion device
- Foreign metal objects in the eye
- Permanent eyeliner
- Insulin pumps
Once you are situated on the table, make sure you are comfortable so that it is easy to remain still for the duration of the examination. Breathe normally. Once the examination has begun, you will hear a knocking sound that represents changes in the magnetic field. This is a normal part of the imaging process. At the conclusion of the exam, the technologist will assist you out of the scan room.
If you are pregnant, please notify your physician.
Are All MRIs the Same?
No. There are several different types of MRI machines available, ranging in different sizes and magnetic field strengths. A variety of MRI scanners provides patients and physicians choices in their imaging options based on different needs, such as claustrophobia or specific high-field imaging requirements. Talk to your doctor about which MRI is right for you.
What Additional Information Do I Need To Know About MRI?
-
-
- Please inform the technologist if you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant.
- You will be asked to wear a gown during the exam. You will be asked to remove undergarments that have any metal fasteners.
- Guidelines about eating and drinking before an MRI exam vary. Follow your daily routine unless told otherwise.
- You will be asked if you have any known allergies to contrast agents.
- Please let the technologist know if you have any serious health problems. You cannot be given contrast if you have certain health conditions, such as kidney disease.
- Jewelry and other metal objects cannot be worn during the exam. Please try to leave them at home if possible.
- You should tell the technologist if you have any implanted medical devices or anything metal in your body. These may interfere with the exam or be dangerous to have during an MRI because of the strength of the MRI magnet.
-
What Are The Benefits And Risks Of An MRI?
The benefits of MRI of the Abdomen/Pelvis:
- No radiation exposure
- Noninvasive
- Allows for accurate diagnosis for a broad range of conditions and diseases including heart disease, cancer, and muscular and bone disorders
Risks you should be aware of:
- Implanted medical devices that contain metal may malfunction or cause problems during an MRI exam.
- There is a very slight risk of an allergic reaction if contrast is injected. Our highly skilled physicians are on hand for immediate assistance should you need it.
Locations
Avon Imaging Center
100 Simsbury Road, Suite 101Avon, CT 06001
Monday, Wednesday & Friday | 8:30am - 4:30pm
Tuesday & Thursday | 8:30 AM to 8:00 PM
Weeknight and weekend appointments available for MRI
Hours Vary by ExamMore Information
Bloomfield Imaging Center
6 Northwestern Drive, Suite 102Bloomfield, CT 06002
Hours Vary By Exam
Monday - Friday | 8:30am - 4:30pm
Weeknight appointments available for MRI until 10pmMore Information
Enfield Imaging Center
100 Hazard Avenue, Suite 100Enfield, CT 06082
Monday - Friday | 8:30am - 5:00pm
Weeknight appointments available for MRI
Weekend appointments available for Mammography
Hours Vary by ExamMore Information
Farmington Imaging Center
399 Farmington AvenueFarmington, CT 06032
Monday - Friday | 8:00am - 4:15pm
Weeknight and weekend appointments available for MRI
Weeknight appointments available for Mammography
Hours vary by examMore Information
Glastonbury Imaging Center
704 Hebron Avenue, Suite 100 (Access to building off Oakwood Drive)Glastonbury, CT 06033
Monday - Friday | 8:30am - 4:30pm
Weeknight appointments available for Mammography and MRI
Hours vary by examMore Information
West Hartford Imaging Center
941 Farmington AveWest Hartford, CT 06107
Monday - Friday | 8:30am - 4:00pm
Weeknight and weekend appointments available for Mammography and MRI
Hours vary by examMore Information
Wethersfield Imaging Center
1260 Silas Deane Highway(Suite 100: CT & MRI | Suite 104: All Other Exams)
Wethersfield, CT 06109
Monday - Friday | 8:30am - 4:30pm
Weeknight and weekend appointments available for MRI
Weeknight appointments available for Mammography
Hours vary by exam.More Information