Prior to your exam, please review the following:
Previous Diagnostic Exam Results
Please bring previous X-rays applicable to the exam. The radiologist may want to review them. (For example: If you are having a MRI of the knee, bring any previous X-rays of your knee.)
Claustrophobic Patients
The wide-bore MRI machines at our Garnet Health locations are great for claustrophobic patients. The machine is open on both ends and have a larger opening than traditional MRI machines. The opening is nearly 2.3 feet (or 70 cm) in diameter with approximately one foot of free space between a patient's head and the magnet.
If you are concerned about feeling claustrophobic during your exam, ask your doctor to prescribe medication prior to the exam. If you do receive medication, please bring someone with you who will be able to drive you home because you will not be able to drive yourself.
Eating or Drinking Prior to Your MRI Exam
For most MRI scans, you can eat and drink prior to the exam. We urge you to check with your provider regarding preparations needed for your exam, as some do require fasting prior to the exam.
Implantable Devices and MRI's
If you have an implantable device, you may not be able to get an MRI exam. Certain cardiac pacemakers, neurostimulation systems, and medication pumps are compatible or have specific specifications for MRI exams. These specifications are based on the type of implantable device you have, such as:
- Cerebral aneurysm clips
- Certain heart valves
- Cochlear implants
- Pacemaker
Our MRI technologists and radiologists must know the exact type of device you have in order to follow the special procedures to ensure your safety. Please bring the information card or pamphlet that accompanied your implantable device for our technicians to analyze. If you do not have or cannot locate your card/pamphlet, please contact your surgeon or physician and have them fax the information to our team.
Items to be Removed Prior to MRI exam
As an MRI scan is a strong magnetic environment, we require the following items to be removed prior to entering the MR system room:
- Purse and/or wallet
- Money clip
- Credit cards, or cards with magnetic strips
- Electronic devices and cell phones
- Hearing aids
- Metal jewelry and watches
- Pens
- Paper clips and safety pins
- Keys
- Coins
- Hairpins
- Shoes
- Belt buckles