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Magnetic Imaging Resonance
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a non-invasive, advanced medical imaging technique that uses a powerful magnetic field and radio frequency pulses to produce detailed pictures of internal body structures including soft tissue, blood vessels, bone and organs. Physicians often use MRI to help diagnose and monitor treatment for tumors, heart problems, blockages, pelvic pain, cancers and other abnormalities.
The Diagnostics and Advanced Imaging Center at Virginia Beach houses a special open bore MRI machine which offers a wider opening. Because of the larger size, a patient’s head need not be inside the machine during the exam which can reduce instances of claustrophobia. In addition, the large bore MRI can accommodate patients up to 500 pounds.
During your MRI exam, you will be asked to lie very still on a table that moves into a scanner housing a large magnet. In some cases, your physician may order the administration of intravenous contrast dye to enable visualization of some specific images.
Preparing for an MRI
- Eat normally. Take your usual medications unless your doctor gives you other instructions.
- Plan to be at the hospital anywhere from 20-60 minutes depending on the number and types of images needed.
- Bring any pertinent X-rays, CT scans or previous MRI exams.
- Advice your Radiologist and your physician if you’ve had any serious health problems or if you’ve recently had surgery. Some conditions, such as kidney disease, may prevent you from being the contrast material.
- Removable metal objects should be left at home if possible. This includes body piercings, removable dental work, eyeglasses, hair pins and other ornamental items. Metal objects can blur your MRI images.
- Bring your insurance identification card or any other relevant insurance information.
- Bring your order from your physician.
There are no known health risks associated with exposure to the MRI. However, there are some special circumstances. Patients who meet the following criteria should not enter the MRI scanning area unless explicitly instructed to do so:
- cardiac pacemaker or artificial heart valve
- metal plate, pin or other metallic implant
- intrauterine device, such as Copper-7 IUD
- insulin pump or other infusion pump
- aneurysm clips
- previous gunshot wound
- inner ear implant
- ever been a metal worker (had metal in eye)
- if you are pregnant
Please ensure that your physician is well aware of any condition that may affect this test or potentially exclude you from receiving an MRI.
