Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, is a diagnostic procedure used to create clear, cross-sectional pictures of the human body. Unlike other techniques, MRI uses no x-rays or radiation but rather combines the naturally occurring force of a magnetic field with radio waves to produce signals that are reconstructed on a digital computer.

MRI yields highly detailed pictures of soft-tissue structures near and around bones, blood vessels, organs and the brain. It is widely used to examine such diverse things as:

•  Spinal and joint problems
•  Small tears to tendons and ligaments
•  Sports injuries
•  Work-related disorders from repeated strain
•  Arthritis
•  Stroke
•  Reproductive organs
•  Organs of the chest and abdomen

We ask that you have nothing to eat or drink for two hours prior to your study.

If you have prior films pertaining to this study, it is very important to bring them with you or have them sent to the center for comparison. If you need help with this, please call the center with the name and address of the facility where the procedure was performed.

Because MRI technology uses a very strong magnetic field, please notify the center if you have a pacemaker, aneurysm clips or any other metal implant and if you have ever worked with metal, been exposed to metal shavings, worked as a grinder or think you might be pregnant.

You should wear loose, comfortable clothing free of metal zippers or buttons like sweats. Bras with metal clasps or under wires cannot be worn in the scanner. If you prefer, you may change into a gown.

A sound system is available if you'd like to bring a CD to listen to during the exam.

A small percentage of people who have difficulty with small confined spaces may experience some anxiety during the procedure. If you feel you may be one of them, please have a friend or relative drive you to your exam. This will allow the center to administer a sedative or relaxant if necessary.

The exam generally takes between 15 and 45 minutes depending on how detailed a study is necessary. When you are ready to begin, the technologist will help you into a comfortable position on a sliding table which will move slowly into the machine. The technologist will then leave the room to begin the exam. However, a speaker system keeps you connected with your technologist throughout the procedure.

Depending on the part of your body being examined, certain devices may be used to enhance the image. One is a coil-like device commonly used in knee imaging. The device is placed around the area being imaged and acts as a transmitter. The other is a contrast agent commonly used to enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels. The agent is injected through an intravenous line about two thirds of the way through the exam. These are only used when necessary.

MRI imaging is actually a sequence of images. The technologist will inform you how long each sequence takes before he or she begins. You will be asked to remain still for the duration of the sequence. During the sequence you will hear a loud tapping or knocking sound. This is the sound the radio waves make as they produce the signals the computer will reconstruct into three dimensional images. Ear plugs are available if you find the noise bothersome.

Your images will be reviewed by a radiologist prior to ending the exam to ensure the images achieved provide the necessary information.

MRI has no side effects or ill results. You are free to resume normal activity following your exam. However, if a sedative was administered, you must refrain from driving or operating machinery for the remainder of the day.

Your tests will be reviewed by our team of radiologists. At EPIC Imaging all exams are "double read" which means they are reviewed, interpreted and discussed by two staff radiologists. Any previous studies are compared against your new exam and the results are sent directly to your physician.

Our goal is to provide your physician with a report within 24 hours of the examination. Having all your outside films at the time of your exam helps ensure your results within that time frame.

The actual results of your exam will be given to you by your doctor who will compare your test results against his or her own clinical findings to provide you with a clear picture of your overall health.

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