Although MRI exams are painless and safer than an X-ray—MRI scans don’t emit radiation—they can make even the most calm, steady person a little nervous. We are here to help put your mind at ease and calm those jitters. We share exactly what to expect before, during and after your MRI scan, so you have a comfortable and pleasant experience.

First things first …

If this is your first time getting an MRI exam, don’t worry, you’ll be in good company. Nearly 40 million MRI scans are performed in the U.S. each year. Unlike other forms of imaging, MRI scans allow your doctor to see both bony and soft tissue within your body to help get a better idea of what is going on.

Did you know there are several different types of MRI scanners, as well? While you are most familiar with the donut-shaped MRI (formerly known as traditional) machine, today there are several options. You probably aren’t aware, but not every radiology facility offers each type of MRI scanner. We Offer: 

1. Traditional MRI: A traditional MRI machine is a large tube, roughly 23.5 inches in diameter that a patient lays in. 

1. Wide Bore MRI: Essentially this is the same as the traditional MRI machine, but it is a little wider—roughly 27.5 inches. The wide bore is ideal for larger patients and those who are have difficulty in tight spaces. 

What to expect before the MRI

Before you schedule your MRI appointment, tell your doctor if you have difficulty with small spaces, so they can make special accommodations if necessary. They may prescribe you an oral medication to help reduce your anxiety or send you to an imaging facility that provides IV sedation.

When scheduling your MRI, staff will ask a series of personal, medical  screening questions to ensure we can safely schedule you for your scan. 

What to expect the day of the MRI

Unless otherwise instructed, on the morning of your scan you will be able to run your morning routine as you normally would – eating breakfast and taking your usual medication.

When you arrive at the imaging center, staff will review the same screening questions, such as recent surgeries and medical history, to ensure your safety.

While everyone’s experience will be different, here are some other things to note:

• Arrive early. This will give you time to complete any additional screening and any other prep that might be necessary. The imaging center will usually give you a timeframe for you to arrive to allot for this.
• Change clothes. As mentioned earlier, you’ll be required to completely change clothes, remove any metal items, such as jewelry, glasses, hairpins as these could alter the the effectiveness of the scan and pose a risk to your personal safety. The office will provide you a gown or scrubs to wear during the exam and a secure place to store your belongings.
• Secure a ride home. If you plan to take medication or a sedative, plan ahead of time by having someone either come with you or ask someone to pick you up once the procedure is complete.

What to expect during the exam

The first thing you should know during your exam is that your safety is most important to us. Your technologist will thoroughly screen you for MRI safety, and provide you with special instructions, blankets, ear plugs and a special button or tool to communicate with them throughout the exam.

Depending on what needs to be scanned, your test will take between 20 to 45 minutes.

Here are some things to expect during the exam:

• Padded table. The imaging technologist will have you lie down on a padded table that slides into the tunnel of the bore (tunnel) where the scanning will take place.
• Call button. Your technologist will give you a call button to alert them if something is wrong.
• Thumping noises. At certain times you’ll hear noises caused by the changing magnetic fields. The clunk, clunk, clunk and buzz sound can be a little stressful for some but shouldn’t be cause for concern. You’ll be given ear plugs or a sound canceling headset and can listen to music to help drown out some of the noise.
• Remain still. The key to succeeding in an MRI exam is to remain as relaxed as possible. Try to keep your body still and let your mind wander. Your technologist may give you special instructions to hold your breath if needed.

What to expect after the MRI

Once your MRI scan is complete, you can resume your daily activities. You’ll be escorted back to the changing area to change and to retrieve your belongings. 

If your doctor gave you any medication or sedation, DO NOT attempt to drive yourself home. Make sure you have someone who can get you home.

Results 

Results are typically discussed with you at your follow-up visit with your ordering provider. 

Takeaway

Although intimidating machines to look at, an MRI exam is nothing to be nervous about. These exams are critical tools used to give your doctor a clearer picture of what is going on inside your body and how to best provide you care.