What is an MRI?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a special diagnostic test that produces very clear, detailed pictures of structures within your body. The test uses powerful magnetic field, radio waves, and computer to create images in cross section. MRI reflects differences in signal intensity within the soft tissues unlike x-ray. With MRI your doctor can see structures such as ligaments, cartilage, organs including the brain and heart. When is it used? Musculosketletal injuries show up well on an MRI. Your doctor can tell on an MRI whether you have a torn ligament or torn meniscus in your knee. This diagnostic test can aid your doctor in deciding whether or not you need surgery. It is useful in evaluating injuries in all joints including the shoulder, back and neck. Doctor’s can use MRIs to see problems in the brain and spinal cord, and to determine the size and location of tumors. Your doctor may order a MRI arthrogram, this specialized test includes the injection of contrast dye into a joint or specified location. This test can allow your doctor to adequately assess a degree of injury verses a tear. How do I prepare for the procedure? No special preparation is needed. You may take your regular prescription medication and have a normal diet. For the test, wear loose comfortable clothing without metal zippers or clasps. The metal can interfere with the testing. The facility may provide you with a gown to avoid this complication. Do not wear jewelry. If you have metal in your body, such as screws or plates from a previous surgery, please tell the radiologist or tech performing the test. If you have a pacemaker, intracranial aneurysm clips, intraorbital metallic foreign bodies, or electromagnetic devices you cannot undergo an MRI. Patients with severe claustrophobia dislike MRIs, please consult your doctor before hand. Your doctor may suggest an oral sedative. What happens during the procedure? You will be shown to the room by a tech and asked to lie down on a cushioned bed that moves into a dome shaped magnet that is open on both ends. You will have to remain very still throughout the procedure so the pictures taken do not become blurred by movement. The tech may place a soft weight beanbag to help the extremity to stay still. Most MRIs take between 30 and 60 minutes. You will hear sound such as loud knocking while the pictures are being taken. You will wear a head set with music or earplugs for hearing protection. When the test is over you may go home. You should contact your doctor and schedule a return visit to discuss the results. What are the benefits and risks? An MRI is painless. There is no radiation and no harmful side effects. If you have undergone an arthrogram, you may experience some discomfort in the effected extremity. Patients are advised to ice, rest, and take medications suggested by your doctor.
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