Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) combines an advanced computer system, radio waves and a strong magnetic field rather than x-rays to provide remarkably clear and detailed pictures of internal organs and tissues. It is one of the safest, most comfortable imaging techniques available for the diagnosis of a broad range of conditions in all parts of the body.

Washington Imaging Services (WIS) offers two types of MRI exams: high-field MRI and low-field open MRI. High-field MRI produces the highest quality images in the shortest time, making it the system of choice whenever possible. To accommodate larger individuals (up to 500 pounds), claustrophobic or special needs patients, the open MRI system uses an open style magnet that has no “tunnel effect."

An MRI exam is safe, simple and painless. However, please notify us for further instructions if:

• You are pregnant or could be pregnant.
• You have a pacemaker, defibrillator, heart valve, cochlear implant or neurostimulator.
• You have a history of metal in the eyes.

Pacemakers, defibrillators and cochlear implants are contraindications to MRI scanning due to the high magnetic field used.

Other implant devices such as hip or knee prosthesis, surgical clips or pins and cardiac stents that have been in place for more than six weeks pose no problem.

Some heart valves, aneurysm clips and neurostimulators are not safe. Bring the implant certificate with you so the technologists can refer to the manufacturer’s information about MRI compatibility.

Preparation for your procedure will depend on the type of MRI being done and the body area being scanned. Specific preparations are listed below with links to the MRI Exam Guidelines for general procedural information.

Abdomen/Liver/Pelvis MRI
Abdomen/Pelvis MRI
Chest MRI/MRA
Heart MRI
Head MRI
Lower Extremities MRI
Pediatric Exams

Abdomen/Liver/Pelvis MRI
Evaluates the liver, spleen, kidneys, adrenal glands and pancreas.

Preparation

• Do not eat food or drink liquids 4 hours prior to your exam.
• Allow 60-90 minutes for the exam.
• Consult the MRI Exam Guidelines for more information.

Abdomen/Pelvis MRI
Evaluates the uterus, cervix and ovaries in women; evaluates the prostate, bladder, penis and scrotum in men.

Preparation

• Do not eat food or drink liquids 4 hours prior to your exam.
• Allow 60-90 minutes for the exam.
• Consult the MRI Exam Guidelines for more information.

Chest MRI/MRA
Assesses structures within the chest cavity, including the heart and lungs. Chest MRI detects and stages cancer of the lungs, breast and other tissues. It is also used to evaluate blood vessels and lymph nodes. A special form of MRI called magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) can demonstrate narrowing of the coronary arteries or an actual blockage by fatty deposits or a blood clot, which often precedes clinical heart disease.

Preparation

• No coffee, tea, nicotine or any other stimulants 4 hours prior to your exam.
• Allow 60-90 minutes for the exam.
• Consult the MRI Exam Guidelines for more information.

Heart MRI
Assesses heart function and structure.

Preparation

• No coffee, tea, nicotine or any other stimulants 4 hours prior to your exam.
• Allow 60-90 minutes for the exam.
• Consult the MRI Exam Guidelines for more information.

Head MRI
Evaluates brain function and abnormalities; used to diagnose stroke, tumor or other neurological conditions.

Preparation

• Anything that might degrade images of the head will need to be removed, including hairpins, jewelry, eyeglasses, hearing aids and any removable dental work.
• Hair must be dry.
• Allow 60-90 minutes for the exam.
• Consult the MRI Exam Guidelines for more information.

Lower Extremities MRI
Evaluates joints (such as knee, shoulder or ankle) and soft tissues to detect ruptured ligaments, damaged cartilage or small fractures that can't be seen on regular x-rays.

Preparation

• Do not eat food or drink liquids 4 hours prior to your exam.
• Allow 60-90 minutes for the exam.
• Consult the MRI Exam Guidelines for more information.

Pediatric Exams

• Please call for specific instructions.

MRI Exam Guidelines

Preparation

• Prior to your scheduled appointment, Washington Imaging Services (WIS) will call you to discuss specific instructions, review your health and insurance information and answer any questions.
• For your convenience, print out and complete the appropriate Patient Forms, including Patient Registration and Patient History. Bring them with you to your appointment.
• Follow the specific preparation instructions listed above for your particular type of MRI exam.
• If you’ve had an allergic reaction to a contrast agent in any prior imaging exam, please notify our staff before your appointment.
• Prior to the exam, eat normally and take your medication as usual (unless your physician has given you other instructions.)
• Leave your valuables at home. All jewelry and any metal objects must be removed prior to the exam.
• Wear comfortable clothing without zippers, snaps or metal buttons. Or, you may change into a hospital gown or scrubs after arriving.
• Please notify the technologist if you are pregnant or could be pregnant.
• Please bring all relevant prior examination films or studies (CT, MRI, ultrasound, x-rays, etc.) with you on the day of your exam.
• For your listening pleasure, bring a music CD to listen to with headphones during the exam. WIS also has a library of CDs you can select from when you arrive.
• If sedation is requested, please call for instructions. You will need to arrange for someone to drive you home.
• Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your exam.

What to Expect During the Exam

• Allow between 60 and 90 minutes for the procedure.
• For your comfort, you may have someone accompany you during the exam. He or she will be able to sit and talk with you during the procedure.
• A technologist will help position you on the cushioned scanning table. Generally, you will lie on your back. An imaging device called a coil may be placed around the area of the body to be scanned.
• You will remain in contact with the technologist throughout the exam though an intercom and a mirror.
• If necessary, physician-administered medication is available to help you relax.
• To minimize scanner noises, you will be given earplugs or you can listen to a music CD through an audio headset.
• As the scan begins, the table will slide into the scanner.
• You will hear knocking or buzzing sounds for a few minutes at a time as images are captured. It is important to lie as still as possible and breathe normally during this imaging process. Some movement is allowed between sequences.
• If a contrast agent is needed to enhance the diagnostic images, you’ll be given an injection. You will feel a warm, flushed sensation and may experience a metallic taste in your mouth that lasts a few minutes.

What to Expect After the Exam

• You may leave as soon as the exam is completed and resume normal activities.
• Your normal diet may be resumed.
• Your imaging study will be interpreted by an OIA board certified radiologist who specializes in the area of the body being scanned.
• Your referring physician will receive a report and pictures detailing the findings of your exam within 24 hour. You should contact your doctor to discuss the results.