MRI: Magnetic Resonance Imaging
What is MRI?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a procedure that gathers information about your body, and through the use of a computer, transmits it as a permanent record for your doctors to see without involving X-rays. If you are pregnant, MRI is generally not recommended.
MRI has been used in diagnosing the following disorders:
- Disorders of the central nervous system (brain and spinal cord)
- Disorders of the joints (knee, hips, shoulder, jaw, wrist, ankles, and feet)
- Disorders of the abdominal and pelvic organs (pancreas, liver, adrenal glands, and reproductive organs)
- Disorders of the heart and circulatory system.
How long does the exam take?
In general, most exams take between 45 minutes to an hour but may be as long as two hours.
Potential sites of MRI
- Brain
- Jaw
- Spine
- Knee and other extremities
- Chest, abdomen, and pelvis
- Circulatory system
During the Exam
After changing into a gown, you will be asked to lie on the examination table that moves inside a large tunnel-like magnetic housing. You will be under constant observation throughout the examination and able to communicate with the technologist through an intercom. When appropriate, an injection of an MRI contrast agents may be given.
Preparing for your MRI
For most MRI examinations, no preparation is necessary. If it is required, a physician or a nurse will inform you of how to prepare for your MRI.
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