Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a powerful magnetic field, radio frequency pulses, and a computer to produce detailed pictures of organs, soft tissues, bone, and virtually all other internal body structures.

Unlike CT scans and X-rays, MRI does not use radiation. Rather, it utilizes a powerful magnet that aligns hydrogen atoms from water molecules in the body to produce a magnetic field that can be detected by the scanner. Radio frequency, also known as resonance, is used to slightly alter the alignment to compose more detailed information.

An MRI can capture different information about the body than other imaging techniques, including X-ray, ultrasound, or CT scan. It is especially useful for obtaining images with detailed contrast between the soft tissues of the body.

Listed below are some of the types of MRI offered at Community Hospital.

• You will be given a gown to wear during the procedure. You may be able to wear your own clothing if it is loose-fitting with no metal such as rivets, buttons, or zippers.

• Metal objects can affect an MRI. Jewelry, eyeglasses, and hairpins will need to be removed before the exam, and you may also be asked to remove hearing aids and removable dental work. Let your doctor know ahead of time if you have a pacemaker, artificial limb, any metal pins, plates, heart valves, or other metal implants of any kind, as these may pose a risk during the exam.

• Be sure your doctor is aware of any recent illnesses or other medical conditions; if you have a history of heart disease, asthma, diabetes, kidney disease or thyroid problems; or if there is a possibility that you may be pregnant.

• Let your doctor know if you become very nervous in confined spaces. If possible, an open MRI will be ordered, or you may be sedated for the exam. If you are to be sedated, arrange for transportation home from the exam.

Depending on the type of exam, a special dye may be injected through an IV to make certain internal organs or systems of the body show up more clearly in the pictures. You may experience a warm sensation in the body when the dye is administered.

When the scan begins, you will be lying on a narrow examination table. The technologist will help position you, and straps and pillows may be used to help you maintain the correct position throughout the exam. You will need to maintain the same position throughout the exam, but the technologist will tell you when you can relax, and when you need to be especially still.

The exam table will move into position inside the magnet. Depending on the machine, it may look like a short tunnel, or it may have a partial circle opening. The table will move and stop several times during the exam. You may hear a thumping or tapping sound during the exam. The exam will generally take 15 to 45 minutes, but it can sometimes take much longer. Your doctor will tell you what to expect before the exam is ordered.

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