MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

Preparing for Your MRI

Generally, you can eat, drink and take medications as usual, unless directed otherwise by your provider. However, certain MRI types or situations may require additional steps, such as fasting or the use of contrast dye. It's essential to follow the specific instructions given by your provider.

Contrast dye is a substance that highlights specific parts of the body and enhances MRI images. The contrast agent used in this test is gadolinium.

If your test is scheduled without contrast, no special instructions or dietary restrictions are required. For tests scheduled with contrast, please refrain from eating or drinking anything for at least two hours before your test.

The scanner resembles a long, hollow tube. You will be asked to lie down on a padded table that will move through the MRI scanner.

The MRI scanner has a weight limit of 500 pounds. If you weigh over 500 pounds, please contact your primary care provider's office for guidance. An alternative test, or an “open” MRI, will have to be considered.

The MRI technologist will explain the procedure to you and address any questions you may have.

What To Bring with You

You may have had X-rays, CT scans or MRIs done at another hospital. Please bring copies of the films or a CD with you on the day of your test. You may also request that your doctor’s office send the films or results to OSF Saint James – John W. Albrecht Medical Center before your test.

Please bring a list of all your medications, including their dosages and how often you take them. Please include all over-the-counter medications and vitamins on your list.

Please take all your scheduled medications unless your primary care provider instructed otherwise.

Jewelry

The MRI uses extremely powerful magnets. Please remove all jewelry and piercings prior to your test. Before entering the scan room, all metal objects outside your body must be removed. Examples include jewelry, watches, coins, clothing with zippers or snaps, belt buckles, bobby pins, hearing aids and dentures. Talk to your primary care provider if you have any non-removable plates or piercings. 

Allergies

If you have any known allergies to gadolinium, please contact your ordering doctor.

Please inform the staff if you have a latex allergy.

Pregnancy Testing Policy

It is the policy of OSF Saint James to verify pregnancy status on all female patients having an MRI exam. This policy is to avoid potential harm to an unborn baby because of the radiation or medications given during the exam.

A pregnancy test is required before the procedure listed above. It should be ordered by your provider if you are a female of childbearing age and have not had a hysterectomy or ovary removal surgery. Home pregnancy tests are not acceptable.

If you are pregnant, please notify your physician.

Pre-Procedure

You will be asked several safety questions before your test. Please contact the MRI Department or your physician’s office if you have any of the following:

• Brain aneurysm clips
• Cardiac pacemaker or defibrillator
• Implanted nerve stimulation devices
• If you have ever had any metal removed from your eyes
• Any injury involving bullets or BBs
• Cochlear implant
• Cozmo insulin pump
• Magnetically activated implants of any kind

The technologist will review a safety checklist with you prior to your scan. You can ask the MRI technologist any additional questions you may have at that time.

During the MRI scan, it is essential for you to remain still. The quality of the pictures is affected by any movement. If you are claustrophobic or have a medical condition that makes it uncomfortable to hold still for 45-60 minutes, please contact your primary care provider. Before the test, you will need to discuss alternative tests or sedation options with your primary care provider. We do not give patients sedation in the MRI department, unless special arrangements have been made through your physician.

Procedure

You may be asked to change into a hospital gown if you wear clothing containing metal, such as zippers, snaps or bras. We will ask you to empty all your pockets to check for metal objects.

Your test will take approximately 45 to 60 minutes to complete. The exact time depends on the exam being performed. There is no exposure to X-ray radiation.

The MRI technologist will position you on the MRI table and will position coils around the area being examined.

Day of Your Appointment

Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled test, unless you are notified otherwise during the scheduling process. Check in through admitting. Admitting will then direct you to the MRI lab.

Results and Recovery

You may leave once the MRI is completed, unless special arrangements have been made for sedation. There are no diet or activity restrictions.

Test Results

Your test will be read by a radiologist, a doctor specializing in medical imaging. Results will be available to your physician’s office within 24 hours, but it may take some time for your physician to review your results. You will need to make arrangements with your ordering doctor to receive your test results, such as scheduling a follow-up appointment or calling your primary care provider’s office.