Preparing for an MRI Scan

MRI is a non-invasive and safe test. As MRI works with a strong magnet and radio waves, you need to tell us, if any of the following applies to you or the person that accompanies you into the exam room:

• Aneurysm clip(s)
• Cardiac pacemaker
• Implanted cardioverter defibrillator
• Electronic implant or device
• Magnetically-activated implant or device
• Neurostimulation system
• Spinal cord stimulator
• Cochlear implant or implanted hearing aid
• Insulin or infusion pump
• Implanted drug infusion device
• Any type of prosthesis or implant
• Artificial or prosthetic limb
• Any metallic fragment or foreign body
• Any external or internal metallic object
• Hearing aid
• Also, please tell us if you are pregnant!

After you have removed all metal objects, the technologist will position you on a special table.Your head will be placed in a padded plastic cradle or on a pillow, and the table will then slide into the scanner. You will be able to communicate with the technologist during the scan.

For clear pictures, you will be asked to hold very still and relax. In some cases, you will be asked to hold your breath for up to 30 seconds. Any movement, especially of your head or back - even moving your jaw to talk - during the scan will seriously blur the pictures.

While the machine is taking your pictures, you will hear rapidly repeating, loud thumping noises coming from the walls of the scanner. Earplugs will be provided. During this time, you should breathe quietly and normally, but otherwise refrain from any movement, coughing or wiggling. When the thumping noise stops, you must refrain from changing your position or moving about.