How to Prepare for Your MRI

On the day of your appointment please leave all jewelry at home.

Here are some things you can expect to be asked if you are scheduling an MRI:

Does your MRI require a contrast injection?

• If you are unsure, please contact your referring physician and ask.
• If it does, please see the separate instructions for MRI contrast studies

Do you have a pacemaker or defibrillator?

• Patients with pacemakers or defibrillators cannot have an MRI!

Have you ever worked with metal?

• Please be aware that you are going under a giant magnet. If there is any chance that you may have the tiniest metal shavings in your eyes you must get an x-ray of the orbits. This is an image of your eyes that will allow the radiologist to be sure that there is no metal in them. This requires a separate prescription from your doctor and should be done right before the MRI. If it must be done on different days you may not work with metal in the interval.

Have you had surgery in the past 3 months?

• If so, you must inform us.

If you are having an MRI of your spine, have you ever had back surgery?

• If so, you must inform us, because you may need contrast.

Do you have any implants or aneurism clips?

• If so, you must inform us and bring your implant card if available.
• Most implants are non-magnetic, but we have to be sure. The card will provide that information.

Do you have a hearing aid?

• You will have to take it out for the procedure.

Are you claustrophobic?

• For most claustrophobic patients the Open MRI is the perfect solution. Some severe cases may require sedation prior to the procedure. If you know that your claustrophobia is severe, please contact your doctor and request a sedative to help you relax.
• Please be safe! If you are taking a sedative prior to your exam, have someone drive you to and from the facility.

If you are unsure about any part of this please contact your referring doctor or your primary care physician.