technologist before the study begins. Points of Interest. • MRI is safe. • MRI does
not use ionizing radiation. • MRI is used to assess blood flow. • MRI is used to.
Information about your MRI Scan Appointment Day:
Date:
Time:
Procedure:
What is a MRI Scan? And What Will Happen? MCGHealth has multiple MRI scanners. Someone from the Department of Radiology will contact you the day before your exam and direct you to the appropriate scanner. If you are pregnant, or suspect that you may be, you should tell your physician or the technologist before the study begins.
Points of Interest
Your physician has ordered a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scan for you. MRI is a painless technology used to view inside the body without using X-rays. MRI is most commonly used to image the brain, spine, thorax, vascular system and musculoskeletal system (including the knee and shoulder). An MRI will help your doctor make an appropriate diagnosis for you. The magnetic fields MRI uses are painless and not known to be harmful. Once you arrive for your MRI, you will be asked about your medical history, including whether you have any metal inside your body, such as shrapnel or surgical clips. You will be asked to remove objects such as jewelry, hairpins, glasses, wigs containing metal, hearing aids and nonpermanent dentures. You will also be asked to empty your pockets.
• MRI is safe • MRI does not use ionizing radiation • MRI is used to assess blood flow • MRI is used to evaluate infections.
For some studies you may receive an injection of contrast media in your vein to allow different types of images. You will then be positioned as comfortably as possible by the MRI technologist. The MRI examination table will slide into the magnet. The magnet may be fairly close to your face (within a few inches), depending on the type of exam you are having. During the exam, you do not feel anything, but you will hear an intermittent knocking noise that may change in the frequency pattern of knocking.
You will not be able to have an MRI examination if you have the following: Pacemakers Neurostimulators (Tens-Units) Ear implants Any metal in the eyes Possibility of Pregnancy Please inform the Technologist if you have any of the above.
What should I do to Prepare for my MRI Scan? Eat normally unless your physician has
You are welcome to bring someone with you to
instructed you differently. Children and
your appointment. We will allow them to be with
infants requiring sedation should not eat or
you as much as possible. In addition, you may
drink approximately 6 hours prior to the
want to tell your friend to bring a good book to
MRI exam. The Pre-Op Sedation team will
read. We ask that you do not bring children due
call the day before the scheduled time with
to the time involved.
instructions Bring a book, magazine, or something else to do while you wait for your exam.
Please let us know if you are diabetic.
After your MRI Scan DEPARTMENT OF RADIOLOGY (706) 721-XRAY ( 9729)
You have no restrictions after a MRI scan
Rapid results are essential not only for your peace
and can go about your normal activities. If
of mind, but also for your physician to begin
you received an injection, over the next few
planning your treatment. The MCG Department of
hours drink plenty of fluids.
Radiology will read your scan shortly after it has been completed. The results will be forwarded to
There are no side effects from the injected
your doctor within a few days of the study. Your
contrast, therefore you should feel fine after
physician will discuss them with you.
the scan.
Driving Directions from West Augusta Washington Road toward Augusta Calhoun Expressway Take 15th Street exit Turn Right onto 15th Street Go past second Red light (Harper Street) 15th Street parking deck just past Harper Street on the Left
Free patient parking is conveniently available in the 15th Street Parking Deck as well as the Harper Street Deck.
DEPARTMENT OF RADIOLOGY (706) 721-XRAY ( 9729)
Driving Directions from South Augusta Deans Bridge Road towards Augusta Cross Gordon Highway Deans Bridge turns into Milledgeville Road Turn left onto 15th Street 15th Street parking deck just past Laney Walker on the right.
