Magnetic Resonance Imaging

What to Expect

What to Do the Night Before

If a dye or contrast medium is to be used, you will need to fast for four hours before the test. Otherwise, no special preparation is needed. Do not wear any metal jewelry, hairclips, or barrettes, as these will have to be removed prior to the test. NOTE: If you suspect you might have difficulty lying very still in the scanner for a period of 30 to 60 minutes due to claustrophobia and/or anxiety, you should tell your physician ahead of time. You may be given a sedative by mouth or by IV prior to the test, in which case you will need to make arrangements for someone to take you home after the test.

Also, be sure to let your physician know if you have any of the following:

• implanted pacemaker
  
  
• implanted medication device, such as an insulin pump
  
  
• metal clips or other metal objects in your body
  
  
• any bullet wounds, particularly if the bullet remains in your body
  
  
• any metal joint replacements or heart valve replacements

Diagnostic Tests Before the Procedure

Depending upon the reason for the MRI, any number of other tests may have been completed prior to your MRI, such as an electrocardiogram (EKG), myocardial perfusion scan, radionuclide angiography, blood work (cardiac isoenzymes, blood count, electrolytes, etc.), chest x-ray, etc.

Scheduling/Registration Information

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Where the Procedure is Done

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Who Performs the Procedure

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Directions to the Hospital

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It is important to arrive at your scheduled time. Your procedure may not begin immediately due to varying lengths of procedures scheduled before your procedure. You will be updated as frequently as possible.

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