Orthopedics Northwest, PLLC

ONW MRI Device
WHAT IS MR IMAGING?

MRI is a way of looking inside the body without x-rays. The exam uses radio waves and magnetic field to create images of the soft tissues of the body. These images are then transferred onto a computer for interpretation.

HOW IS THE MRI PERFORMED?

You will be asked to lay on a table. The technologist will try and position you so that you are as comfortable as possible. You will be asked to remain still during the exam.

MRI: A FAST SIMPLE EXAMINATION

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a safe, totally painless way for your physician to look into your body. The pictures created during the exam look at the soft tissue and provide information that can improve the diagnosis. This brochure is provided to answer the questions most frequently asked by people scheduled for an MRI examination.

HOW LONG WILL THE MRI TAKE?

The complete exam takes 30-45 minutes.

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR THE MRI EXAM?

You can eat, drink and take regularly prescribed medications prior to the exam.

If you are severely claustrophobic your physician may have given you a prescription medication to take prior to the MRI, so you will be more comfortable during the exam. When taking this medication you will need a driver to take you to and from your MRI appointment; as this will cause drowsiness.

You will be asked to remove your watch, credit cards, jewelry (including body jewelry), keys, pocket knife, hearing aid, or any other metal objects before approaching the MRI. The magnet could affect items of this type or the items could affect the magnet. You may be asked to change your clothes to avoid any interference from metal in zippers and fasteners. If you have a leg exam, you may want to bring some shorts, or we will provide some for you.

WHAT DO MR IMAGES LOOK LIKE?

MR images provide much more detailed information. The images will be sent to a radiologist for interpretation, who will provide a written report to your physician. The images will also be provided to your physician for him to review.

WILL I FEEL ANYTHING?

No. There is no pain or unusual sensation. The MRI will make a loud tapping sound. You will be given ear phones to wear during the exam so that you will be able to communicate with the technologist as well as to listen to music.

SPECIAL NOTES: PLEASE DO NOT BRING THE FOLLOWING (OR ANY METAL ITEMS) INTO THE EXAMINATION ROOM:

- Jewelry
- Credit Cards
- Pocket Knife
- Money Clip
- Keys

TELL YOUR DOCTOR IF YOU HAVE:

- Aneurysm clips
- Metal Plates/Screws/Pins
- Metal Foreign Body (i.e. eyes)
- Pacemaker
- Joint Replacements
- Tattooed Eye Liner
- Implants - Ear/Penile/IUD
- Claustrophobia