Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Your doctor wants you to have an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scan. MRI uses magnetism and radio waves to make pictures of the inside of your body. It does not use X-rays or injectable dyes and is therefore safe and painless. Because MRI uses a powerful magnetic field, it cannot be done if you have a heart pacemaker, inner ear implant, brain aneurysm clips, shrapnel, IUD, or other metal implants.

MRI studies are often used to evaluate problems with the nervous system, spine, and joints. An MRI scan usually takes 30-60 minutes to complete. You will be placed on a narrow moveable table and slid inside the scanner. During the scan you may notice some loud noises, this is normal. A number of images will be recorded and analyzed by a computer. These images will be reviewed by a radiology specialist, and a report will be sent to your doctor.