Things to Tell Us!
Because MRI uses powerful magnets, the presence of metal in your body can be a safety hazard if attracted to the magnet. Even if not attracted to the magnet, metal objects can distort the MRI image.
Unless the device you have is certified as MRI safe, you might not be able to have an MRI. Please let us know if you have any of the following devices:
ABQ MRI
Additional Information
If you have tattoos or permanent makeup, ask your doctor whether they might affect your MRI. Some of the darker inks contain metal.
Before you schedule an MRI, tell your doctor if you think you’re pregnant. The effects of magnetic fields on fetuses aren’t well understood. Your doctor might recommend an alternative exam or postponing the MRI. Also tell your doctor if you’re breast-feeding, especially if you’re to receive contrast material during the procedure.
It’s also important to discuss kidney or liver problems with your doctor and the technologist, because problems with these organs might limit the use of injected contrast agents during your scan.
How you prepare
Before an MRI exam, eat normally and continue to take your usual medications, unless otherwise instructed. You will typically be asked to change into a gown and to remove things that might affect the magnetic imaging, such as:
Jewelry
Hairpins
Eyeglasses
Watches
Wigs
Dentures
Hearing aids
Underwire bras
Cosmetics that contain metal particles
What you can expect
During The Test
The MRI machine is open on three sides. You lie down on a movable table that slides under the magnet. A technologist monitors you from a few feet away. You can talk with the person by microphone.
Our unit is an open model so claustrophobia shouldn’t be an issue. If you have a fear of enclosed spaces (claustrophobia), you might be given a drug to help you feel sleepy and less anxious. Most people get through the exam without difficulty.
The MRI machine creates a strong magnetic field around you, and radio waves are directed at your body. The procedure is painless. You don’t feel the magnetic field or radio waves, and there are no moving parts around you.
During the MRI scan, the internal part of the magnet produces repetitive tapping, thumping and other noises. You might be given earplugs or have music playing to help block the noise.
In some cases, a contrast material, typically gadolinium, will be injected through an intravenous (IV) line into a vein in your hand or arm. The contrast material enhances certain details. Gadolinium rarely causes allergic reactions.
An MRI can last anywhere from 15 minutes to more than an hour. You must hold still because movement can blur the resulting images.
During a functional MRI, you might be asked to perform a number of small tasks — such as tapping your thumb against your fingers, rubbing a block of sandpaper or answering simple questions. This helps pinpoint the portions of your brain that control these actions.
After the test
If you haven’t been sedated, you can resume your usual activities immediately after the scan.
Results
A doctor specially trained to interpret MRIs (radiologist) will analyze the images from your scan and report the findings to your doctor. Your doctor will discuss important findings and next steps with you.
