MRI

MRI Services Information

Click on the following links to learn more about Advanced Imaging Center's Open MRI Services.


Common Questions Regarding Your Magnetic Resonance Imaging

(MRI) Exam

Do I need a referral to get an MRI?

Yes. Your doctor must give you a referral (prescription) for your exam. Insurance companies require a physician signed referral stating the procedure, diagnosis and reason you are having the exam for it to be covered.

How do I get my results?

Results from your exam may be obtained from your doctor. Your referring physician will contact you with the results or discuss them with you at your scheduled follow-up appointment.

Will my exam hurt?

No. MRI imaging itself should cause no pain. MRI imaging requires that the patient remain still during the examination. For some patients, keeping still for the 15 -20 minute exam may be slightly uncomfortable. Some MRI exams require the patient to receive a contrast injection which may cause slight, temporary discomfort at the time of injection. (see below section "Do I need an injection").

How long will the examination take?

Advanced Imaging performs many different MRI examinations. Depending on the type of exam that was ordered, the length of the actual procedure will typically be between 30 minutes to one hour per procedure. If there is a specific question about the duration of your MRI examination please discuss it with an Advanced Imaging technologist before your exam.

Will I need an injection of contrast for my MRI Exam?


Not everyone needs an injection for an MRI. When an injection is needed, a contrast agent called Gadolinium is administered to the patient. This is only done when the radiologist and/or the referring physician has determined that it is necessary for diagnostic purposes. Gadolinium contrast is used to highlight the structure of the specific organs or vessel to better show the presence of disease or injury. If a MRI exam does require the use of a Gadolinium injection, a small needle, connected to an intravenous line, is usually inserted into the patient's arm or hand. At the time of the injection, a patient may feel a cool sensation in his or her arm.

Injection


Can I have an MRI if I am pregnant?

MRI is considered a safe exam, however, conclusive information showing how safe MRI is for pregnant women and the fetus is not yet available. Although there are no medical contraindications, MRI imaging is generally not performed on women in the first twelve weeks of pregnancy (first trimester). Physicians typically do not perform MRI on pregnant women unless there are strong medical indications. Other diagnostic exams, such as ultrasound, could be helpful to diagnose a medical condition replacing the MRI exam. If there is a strong medical reason for an MRI, your physician may consult with a radiologist to determine if MRI is the best course of action before proceeding. Please consult with your physician for more specific information.

Can I have an MRI if I am breast feeding?

Typically, patients are instructed to wait for 24 hours after receiving the Gadolinium injection before breast-feeding again. Patients may wish to pump breast milk prior to the MRI exam and store it for use during this 24-hour period. Always check with your physician and Advanced Imaging’s Technologist for specific recommendations.