What Does MRI Do For You And Your Medical Team?
MRI, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is a method used by physicians to look inside the human body to obtain diagnostic information. Incorporating an advanced technology, MRI produces images of the anatomy without the use of radiation found in x-ray and CT scanning.
MRI uses a computer and the physical properties of magnetic fields and radio waves to generate images of the soft tissues within the body in any plane. This technique is commonly used as a primary diagnostic tool. It can help provide a quick and accurate diagnosis for your physician, which in some situations can reduce the need for exploratory surgery and other diagnostic procedures that might have associated risk.
MRI is a non-invasive procedure, and there are no known side or after effects. The procedure is painless; in fact, you won’t see or feel anything. A faint knocking sound will be heard, which is simply the imaging process in operation.
The benefits of magnetic resonance imaging are many, with new applications continually being developed through on-going research. 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
- Cardiac malformations
- Blood flow and vessel disorders
How Does MRI Operate, And What Should You Expect?
MR images are formed by the computer processing signals that are emitted by body tissue. These signals are generated using a safe magnetic field in combination with radio waves of a specific frequency. Different tissue characteristics are revealed through this process and translated into different contrast levels on the image.
The procedure typically will last anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the type of information required by your physician. You just need to be as still as possible during the exam. In fact, some patients fall asleep during the MRI exam.
A technologist will be able to see you at all times. For your convenience, an intercom system is built into the magnet so that if you need anything, the technologist will be right there. In certain instances, a contrast agent may be administered to enhance the study. There are no extra precautions if your doctor requires this. Consult the doctor or technologist if you have any questions.
What Do You Have To Do To Prepare For The MRI?
No special preparation is required prior to the MRI exam. You may eat normally and go about your daily routine. Continue to take any medication prescribed by your doctor unless otherwise directed.
Because of the magnetic field, you will be asked to leave the following items in a safe place outside the scan room:
- Coins
- Jewelry
- Watches
- Glasses
- Credit cards
- Hearing aids
- Keys
- Hair pins
- Other metal objects
You may also be asked to remove makeup and dentures and to wear a hospital gown to avoid magnetic interference from belt buckles and zippers.
Once you are situated on the table, make sure you are comfortable so that it is easy to keep still. Breathe normally. There is nothing about the procedure to make you uncomfortable. The only thing you will notice is a faint knocking sound that represents the change in the magnetic field that are part of the imaging process.
Once the exam is over, the technologist will assist you out of the scan room.
Because of the potential harmful effects associated with some metallic objects in a magnetic field, you should check with your physician or MRI technologist if you have had any brain, ear, eye or other surgeries or 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
- Shrapnel or bullet wounds
- Permanent eyeliner
If you are pregnant, please notify your physician.
The Hitachi AIRIS II provides the versatility needed to meet a demanding range of clinical requirements. It provides comfort for the patient while delivering consistently high quality images needed for comprehensive diagnosis. And of course, the AIRIS II is backed by Hitachi Medical Corporation, a recognized leader in imaging technology.