Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), commonly referred to as magnetic resonance alone, is a diagnostic test that uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to recreate images of the body's internal organs, tissues and structures. It can help your doctor make a diagnosis and work out the best therapy for your specific health condition. There isn't much to do to prepare for an MRI, but knowing what awaits you helps you feel ready.
Steps
Part 1 of 2: Prepare Before the Exam
Step 1. Tell your doctor if you are claustrophobic
During the MRI you have to stay inside a tubular machine for up to an hour. If you have claustrophobia, the experience may cause a lot of anxiety, and if you feel very nervous, you may need to be given a sedative before the exam. Talk to your doctor before you undergo an MRI to see if he can prescribe a tranquilizer.
Step 2. Tell doctors about all metal implants in your body
Some can interfere with the machinery, so be sure to make them known before taking the test.
- Cochlear (ear) implants, clips to check for brain aneurysms, metal coils inside blood vessels and any type of cardiac defibrillator or pacemaker prevent the patient from undergoing an MRI.
- Some metal implants expose the person to health risks and may make the results inaccurate. Depending on when you have some devices implanted, it may be safe to undergo an MRI even if you have: artificial heart valves, permanent central venous accesses, artificial limbs, joint prostheses, nerve stimulators, metal pins and screws, plates, stents, or staples surgical.
Step 3. Make the doctor aware of any health concerns
Certain pathologies or particular conditions should be considered before having an MRI scan. Talk to your doctor about exam safety if:
- You're pregnant;
- You have had kidney problems;
- You are allergic to iodine or gadolinium;
- Do you have diabetes.
Step 4. Take your medications as usual
Before undergoing an MRI you should take your medications as usual, unless your doctor gives you different instructions. You should stick to the normal schedule as much as possible even in the days leading up to the test.
Step 5. Know what to expect
By informing yourself about the procedure to follow during an MRI, you can reassure yourself. Read some information documents a few days before the exam.
- The MRI machine is a large tube with open ends. You will need to lie down on a mobile bed that is pushed into the tube while the technician monitors the situation from another room.
- The magnetic field and radio waves create an image of the inside of the body, thanks to which anomalies such as brain tumors, chronic diseases and other alterations can be diagnosed. However, the procedure is painless because you will not have any perception of the magnetic field.
- The MRI machine produces a lot of noise during the test. Some patients choose to bring earphones to listen to music or an audio book while undergoing the exam.
- The duration of the procedure is variable, but generally quite long; sometimes it takes up to an hour to complete the test.
Step 6. Follow any specific directions your doctor has given you
In most cases, you should continue your normal routine without making any changes. However, if you have any specific medical problems, your doctor may suggest that you change your medication, diet, or sleep habits. Respect all the guidelines that the specialist gives you and call him in case of doubts.
Part 2 of 2: Show up on Exam Day
Step 1. Consider asking a friend or relative to accompany you
If you are being sedated due to claustrophobia, it is important that there is someone who can take you to the hospital and back home or make sure you make the transfers safely by public transport or a taxi. Even if you will be fully conscious during the exam, it is worth having someone with you, as the MRI is quite long and stressful.
Step 2. Introduce yourself early
You should arrive half an hour before your appointment, as there are documents to fill out, paperwork to be done, and your doctor or nurse may want to discuss the procedure with you before performing it.
Step 3. Remove all objects that contain metal
Before an MRI, you must remove all these elements, as they contain metal parts:
- All jewelry;
- Eyeglasses;
- Hairpins and hair clips with metal;
- Dentures;
- Watches;
- Hearing aids;
- Wig;
- Underwire bra.
Step 4. Fill out the informed consent form
You will be asked to fill out a form before undergoing the MRI. This is a 3-5 page document, where you need to include your basic information, such as your first and last name, date of birth, age and details of your medical history. Take the time to read it and answer all questions as best you can. If you have any doubts or concerns about the form, ask your nurse or doctor for help.
The document also has a section on allergies and reactions to contrast agents that you may have had in the past during similar tests. In some cases, intravenous injection of a contrast material called gadolinium is necessary which, in rare cases, can trigger allergic reactions
Step 5. Follow the instructions given to you during the procedure
Once the documents are filled out, you will be taken to the MRI room. You will need to wear a hospital gown and, from now on, you will need to follow the instructions of the healthcare professional regarding the execution of the exam.
- During the MRI you can listen to the technician or doctor and talk to him. In certain situations, you will be asked to perform simple commands, such as tapping your fingers or answering questions.
- Try to stay still as much as possible during the exam. You will be advised not to move, in order to get clear images; just breathe normally and stay still.
Advice
- In some facilities, earphones are provided to listen to some music during the procedure. You can inform yourself in advance if this possibility exists.
- Doctors sometimes ask patients to avoid certain specific foods before the exam. If so, the doctor himself or the nurse will tell you what you can't eat.
- If you need an interpreter, you should notify the hospital when you make your appointment.
