Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

A MRI is a diagnostic exam in which strong magnetic fields, radio waves and a computer are used to make images or pictures of the inside of your body. The images are multi-dimensional and are not produced by x-rays. Any area of your body may be scanned.

A MRI is done to show any number of abnormalities that may be causing you discomfort or other symptoms.

The magnetic fields used in MRI are not known to be harmful, and MRI is painless. However, because of the way MRI works, metal in or on your body can affect the MRI pictures. Tell your doctor and MRI technologist if you have a cardiac pacemaker or artificial heart valve, metal plate, pin or other metal implant, insulin pump or other infusion pump, aneurysm clips, stents, IUD, or inner ear implant.

The MRI staff will interview you briefly before the scan about other implanted metal devices. They will be able to determine if you can still have a MRI scan. You should also let your doctor or MRI staff know if you are pregnant or nursing. MRI is not usually advised for pregnant women.

Before the exam you may eat normally unless you have been instructed differently by your doctor. Take any medications as usual. If you use medicated patches (Durajesic, Nitrostycerine, birth control) bring a replacement patch the day of the MRI. If you are taking pain medication, it may be helpful to take this also before the exam, as you will be asked to lie still for a period of time. It is very important that you are able to lie still during the scan. Movement will blur the pictures, producing a poor exam. Dress in comfortable clothing without metal, if possible (hooks, zippers, etc.). A hospital gown will be available to change into if needed.

When you arrive for your MRI you will be asked briefly about your health history. You will be asked to leave all metallic objects (jewelry, keys, credit cards, watches, hairpins, hearing aides, coins, etc.) in a secure place outside the scanning room. You may be asked to change into a hospital gown. You will be positioned as comfortably as possible on the exam table, lying on your back. The table will slide into the large, tube-shaped magnet with openings on both ends (the scanner), so that the part of your body to be scanned is in the center of the tube.

During the exam, the MRI scanner makes a loud knocking or thumping sound that changes in frequency or pattern. Ear plugs or headphones with your choice of music are available for your comfort. It is very important that you lie still and follow the instructions of the technologist. For some scans, a contrast agent is used to make certain parts of the body appear bright on the pictures. If this is needed for your exam, you will feel a brief needle stick as the contrast agent is injected into your vein.

Length of your exam will depend on your medical condition and what part of the body is being scanned. Typically, 20-30 minutes per body part is sufficient, but allow 1-2 hours for the total process.

After the exam the radiologist will review the MRI films and will send a report to your doctor.

Providing safe, quality patient care is our highest priority. To help ensure quality and safety, we ask that you do not bring young children with you to your appointments, as children are not allowed to accompany you during Imaging procedures. Staff is unable to monitor your child in your absence.

If you have any questions or concerns, please contact your doctor or contact Imaging Services at (320) 255-5619.

Your appointment is on:

Date: ________________ Time: ________________ at the following location:

____ St. Cloud Hospital - please check in at Door A

____ CentraCare Health Plaza - please check in at Woodlands Entrance