How to Prepare for a MRI scan?



HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR THE PROCEDURE?

  1. Bring a copy of the order for the procedure from your referring physician.
  2. No special preparation is needed for most MRI examinations.
  3. The weight limit for the closed high field MRI is 440 lbs. The weight limit for the open low-field MRI is 500 lbs.
  4. Before studies of the brain, spine, and joints you can eat a regular diet. For studies of the abdomen or pelvis you should refrain from eating or drinking for 4 hours.
  5. Take your usual medications.
  6. Wear comfortable, loose clothing. You may be asked to change into a gown.

Before entering the MRI room you must remove ALL metallic objects including hearing aids, dentures, partial plates, keys, beeper, cell phone, eyeglasses, hair pins, barrettes, jewelry, body piercing jewelry, watch, safety pins, paperclips, money clip, credit cards, bank cards, magnetic strip cards, coins, pens, pocket knife, nail clippers, tools, clothing with metal fasteners, and clothing with metallic threads.

The MRI system has a very strong magnetic field that is always on. Improper entry to the MRI scanning room may result in serious injury or death. Do not enter the scanning room without the permission of the technologist or Radiologist. Do not enter the MRI room if you have any question or concern regarding the safety of an implant or device. The following devices may be hazardous to you and/or interfere with the MRI examination:

  • Aneurysm clip(s)
  • Cardiac pacemaker
  • Implanted cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)
  • Electronic implant or device
  • Magnetically-activated implant or device
  • Neurostimulation system
  • Spinal cord stimulator
  • Internal electrodes or wires
  • Bone growth/bone fusion stimulator
  • Cochlear, otologic, or other ear implant
  • Hearing aid
  • Insulin or other infusion pump
  • Implanted drug infusion device
  • Any type of prosthesis (eye, penile, etc.)
  • Heart valve prosthesis
  • Eyelid spring or wire
  • Artificial or prosthetic limb
  • Metallic stent, filter, or coil
  • Shunt (spinal or intraventricular)
  • Vascular access port and/or catheter
  • Radiation seeds or implants
  • Swan-Ganz or thermodilution catheter
  • Medication patch (Nicotine, Nitroglycerin)
  • Any metallic fragment or foreign body
  • Wire mesh implant
  • Tissue expander (e.g. breast)
  • Surgical staples, clips, or metallic sutures
  • Joint replacement (hip, knee, etc.)
  • Bone/joint pin, screw, nail, wire, plate, etc.
  • IUD, diaphragm, or pessary
  • Dentures or partial plates
  • Tattoo or permanent makeup
  • Body piercing jewelry

 

28 White Bridge Road
Suite 111
Nashville, Tennessee
37205

Phone (615) 356-3999
Fax (615) 353-0462