Preparation for an MRI scan involves following some rules to obtain accurate results and a successful procedure. Knowing the do's and don'ts before the procedure will lower anxiety and prevent complications, including interference from metal objects or poor positioning. Proper preparation is essential to a successful MRI experience.
What is an MRI?
An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a non-invasive medical imaging procedure that uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the internal structures of the body. It is not invasive and is used most frequently to image soft tissues, including the brain, muscles, joints, and organs, using no radiation.
Do's: Preparing for an MRI
- Listen to Your Doctor's Instructions: Your physician will give you personalized instructions for your MRI. These could be anything from how long you should not eat and drink, preparation for your exam, and if you should take any medications or report your history. Always follow these instructions carefully for optimal results.
- Wear Comfortable, Loose-Fitting Clothes: As you'll be on a table the entire duration of time while undergoing the MRI, you'd like to coordinate attire so that you can dress freely. Binding or tight attire would be uncomfortable, and you'll need to remove it and have on a gown that the medical facility offers.
Do Not Bring Jewelry and Metal Objects with you.
MRI equipment employs powerful magnetic fields, and thus, any metallic items, such as jewelry, piercings, watches, glasses, hearing aids, or dentures, can be problematic. Remove everything metallic before your visit.
- Inform the Technician of Your Medical History: You will be queried about your medical history before your MRI by the radiology technician. It is important to reveal any previous surgery, implants, or ailments that can impact the MRI procedure.
Also, inform them if you are pregnant or suspect that you may be pregnant because MRI scans are usually not recommended when you are pregnant unless necessary.
- Bring a Friend or Family Member Along: Some individuals will experience nervousness or claustrophobia when undergoing an MRI, particularly if the region to be imaged requires that you enter a shut MRI machine (also known as "closed-bore" MRI). If you do get apprehensive, having someone familiar with you to provide reassurance is reassuring.
- Plan to Arrive Early: Plan to arrive at least 15 to 30 minutes before your MRI appointment. This will allow you enough time to complete any forms they might need from you, get into a gown if required, and respond to medical history questions.
- Follow Any Fasting Instructions: Depending on where on your body you're having an imaged, you may be required to fast several hours beforehand for an MRI. As an example, if you are having your stomach or pelvic area, you will be instructed not to eat or drink anything beforehand for some duration. Always clarify with your doctor if and when there is fasting required beforehand and act accordingly.
- Make Sure You Might Need to Skip Certain Medications: Your doctor might request that you stop taking certain medications before your MRI. This is especially the case if you're having an MRI with contrast dye, which is sometimes used to make the images more precise.
- Ask About Contrast Agents (If Necessary)
Certain MRIs involve the insertion of a contrast agent (typically a dye) to enhance the clarity of the images. The contrast agent could be injected straight into your vein through an IV, or orally, depending on what is to be visualized.
Ask your physician about any side effects the contrast material might cause, and inform them if you have allergies to contrast material or if you have ever reacted to such substances.
Don'ts: Stay Away from These Before Your MRI
- No Makeup or Lotion
Certain products, such as cosmetics or lotions, have metal components that will interfere with the accuracy of MRI scanning. Do not wear any form of makeup, particularly facial makeup, and do not apply lotion or cream to the part of your body you will be scanning.
- Do Not Panic if You Feel Claustrophobic
If you’re feeling nervous about being inside the MRI machine, you’re not alone. Many people experience a sense of claustrophobia during the procedure. The MRI machine is a narrow tube, and some people may feel anxious or uncomfortable in tight spaces.
To combat this, inform your technician about your feelings of claustrophobia beforehand.
- Don’t Move During the Scan
After the MRI is underway, remaining as still as possible is vital. Looming has the potential to cause images to blur, which might make your doctor find it even more difficult to determine your condition correctly. If you do feel pain or want a break, inform your technician about that, but try your best to remain in the same position.
- Refrain from Bringing Metal Items
Do not bring any metal items into the MRI room, as they will cause interference to the magnetic field and can be sucked into the machine, which will be a safety issue. Some examples include earrings, bracelets, necklaces, hairpins, or other metallic jewelry. If you recall wearing any of these products but cannot get them off, the technician will remind you when scanning starts.
- Don't Be Afraid to Ask Questions
If you are concerned or have questions about your MRI, you should not be afraid to ask the technician or your physician. You need to be relaxed and well-informed during the procedure. The MRI technician is the person who can answer any questions or issues you may have and describe the procedure in detail.
What to Expect During the MRI Procedure
Now that you have an idea of what to expect in preparation, below is a summary of what you should expect while undergoing the actual MRI process:
- Approaching the MRI Room: When you're ready, you'll be instructed to lie on a table, which is moved into the MRI machine. Depending on the region of the body to be scanned, you'll be placed in a number of positions by the technician to obtain the best possible images.
- While Scanning: The MRI machine will produce very loud thumping, buzzing, or clicking sounds as the scan is performed. Earplugs or headphones may be provided to help minimize the noise. The technician will also speak to you over an intercom during the procedure.
- Contrast Dye (If Needed): If you are having contrast dye, you will receive it via an IV in your arm. You might feel a temporary warming sensation where the dye is injected, but that is normal.
- Duration: The entire MRI process will typically take between 30 minutes to one hour, depending on how much image complexity is needed.
FAQs
Q: May I take my Phone with me to the MRI Room?
A: No. Phones and other electronic devices must be left outside the MRI room since they can interfere with the equipment.
Q: Should I Inform the Technician of Any Medical Implants?
A: Yes, always let the technician know if you have implants such as a pacemaker, metal plates, or surgical clips since these can impact the MRI procedure.
Q: How Long Does the MRI Scan Last?
A: Usually between 30 minutes and an hour for most MRI procedures, depending on the test.
Q: Do I Need to Discontinue My Regular Medications Before an MRI?
A: Mostly, yes. But you might want to double-check with your physician, particularly if you're getting contrast dye with the MRI.
Q: Can I Eat Before My MRI Scan?
A: It varies with the kind of MRI. For some of them, like for an abdominal scan, you will have to starve for a couple of hours before the scan. Always take your doctor's word.
Conclusion
Having an MRI prep process might be intimidating, but knowing the process with proper information, it is a hassle-free and stressless process. If you adhere to the do's and shun the don'ts in this article, you can make the most out of the scan findings.
In case you are uncertain or need clarifications, never hesitate to question your doctor or MRI technologist.
At Royal Medical Center, we value our patients' comfort and care. If you have an outstanding MRI, we can walk you through the process and make sure that your experience is a positive one. Call us today to book your appointment or to address any additional questions you may have regarding your outstanding scan.
