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MRI - Magnetic Resonance Imaging

MRI is a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of large magnets, radio waves, and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body.  MRI helps determine if there is an abnormality such as scarring, malformations, cysts, tumors or infections causing seizures.  A special epilepsy protocol MRI is followed to provide a more comprehensive exam.  There is no radiation used in this procedure.  The procedure usually takes about one hour to complete.

Procedure

Generally, an MRI procedure follows this process:

• Because of the strong magnetic field, the patient must remove all jewelry and metal objects such as hairpins or barrettes, hearing aids, eyeglasses, and dental pieces.  

• If a contrast medication and/or sedative is to be given by an intravenous line (IV), and IV line will be started in your hand or arm.  If the contrast is to be taken by mouth, the patient will be given the contrast to swallow.

• The patient lies on a table that slides into a tunnel in the scanner.

• The MRI staff will be in another room where the scanner controls are located.  However, the patient will be in constant sight of the staff through a window.  Speakers inside the scanner will allow the staff to communicate with and hear the patient.  The patient will have a call bell so that he/she can let the staff know if he/she has any problems during the procedure.

• During the scanning process, a clicking noise sounds as the magnetic field is created and pulses of radio waves are sent from the scanner.  

• It is important that the patient remain very still during the exam.

• The technologist will be watching the patient at all times and will be in constant communication.

Source:  http://www.mcghealth.org/Greystone/adult/radiology/mri.html

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Questions and Comments to Bill Hamilton 

  December 29, 2005

School of Medicine  |  Medical College of Georgia