Patient InformationAbout MRI ExamMagnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses radiofrequency waves and a strong magnetic field rather than x-rays to provide remarkably clear and detailed pictures of internal organs and tissues. The technique has proven very valuable for the diagnosis of a broad range of pathologic conditions in all parts of the body, including cancer, heart and vascular disease, stroke, and joint and musculoskeletal disorders. MRI requires specialized equipment and expertise and allows evaluation of some body structures that may not be as visible with other imaging methods. Benefits of MRI• Painless • Non-invasive • Does not use ionizing radiation • Shows soft tissue in exquisite detail • Able to depict tissue not seen with other imaging tests About Your AppointmentIn most cases your appointment will be made over the phone so that you can select a time convenient for you. When the appointment is made you will be asked a few questions about your medical history to ensure that it is safe for you to have an MRI scan. On the day of your appointment you will need to arrive 15 minutes beforehand. You will be asked to fill out and sign a safety questionnaire; this ensures that there are no reasons why you should not have an MRI scan. Your belongings will be locked away safely. The MRI Technician will take you into the MRI room and prepare you for the scan. How do I prepare for an MRI?Let your doctor know if you: • are uncomfortable in small spaces; • have a pacemaker, artificial heart valve, artificial limb, cochlear implant, dental implants, metal implants or pins, or any other implanted or prosthetic medical device; • have worked in areas with metal, such as in factories; • are pregnant, or think you might be pregnant; • have an allergy of any kind (the dyes used during an MRI can cause serious allergic reactions in some people with pre-existing allergies, including those involving hay fever, hives, or asthma, as well as food or medication allergies); • have an intrauterine device (IUD); • have a medication patch on your skin (the patch may burn during the test if not removed); or • have any medical conditions (people with certain conditions should not be given the MRI test dyes). You will be asked to remove anything that might degrade MRI images, including hairpins, jewelry, eyeglasses, hearing aids, and any removable dental work. You will also need to remove any loose metal objects like keys or coins from your pockets, take off your watch, leave your mobile phone and your bank cards outside because they can be damaged by the scanner’s magnets. Can I eat and drink?You may eat, drink and continue to take your regular medication(s) prior to your MRI scan. If you are having a scan of your abdomen you may be asked to fast for four hours before your scan. How long will the exam take?This procedure will usually be repeated several times, and the entire exam ordinarily takes approximately 30 minutes to complete. If you have a disability, anxiety, or require special assistance, please mention this when scheduling. We will allow extra time to accommodate your needs. What happens during an MRI scan?• The scan is quite painless. You will not feel anything during the scan and the best thing to do is to relax. • Once you are ready for your scan, the radiographer will position you on the scanner couch and make you as comfortable as possible. It is vital that you lie still for the scan - being comfortable from the outset will help. • During the scan you will hear loud rhythmic knocking sounds. This is normal and you may be given ear plugs to keep noise to a minimum. • You may notice a warm feeling in the area under examination; this is normal, but if it bothers you, the radiologist or technologist should be told. • If a contrast injection is needed, there may be discomfort at the injection site, and you may have a cool sensation at the site during the injection. How do I get my results?A radiologist will analyze the images and send a signed report with his or her interpretation to your physician. Full results are usually available within 24 to 48 Hours, and your doctor will discuss these results both with the radiologist and you. Private Patients All private patients will receive a complementary CD with their images immediately after the exam. Non-provincial Health Insurance Patients (WCB, DND etc) We will provide the complete patient file on a CD directly to the institution. |
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