MultiCare Health System

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MRI

What is an MRI?
An MRI is a non-invasive and painless procedure in which radio waves and powerful magnets are used to create remarkably clear and detailed pictures of internal organs and tissues without the use of radiation.

Why it is done?
MRI provides an unparalleled view inside your body. It has become the preferred procedure for diagnosing a large number of potential problems in many different parts of the body, such as in the head, chest, blood vessels, abdomen, pelvis, bones, joints and spine.

How does it feel?
You will hear noises while the machine is taking pictures ranging from a grating sound to a tapping sound. You will be asked not to move during the actual imaging process, but between sequences some movement is allowed. Generally you will only need to be completely still for a few second to a few minutes at a time.

How to prepare
Please make arrangements for child care during your scheduled appointment time. If you are unable to find care please call and reschedule your appointment.

You will be asked to remove your jewelry, watch, hairpins, bobby pins, hearing aids, removable dental work and glasses. Your hair should be free of hairspray or styling gel. You may be asked not to eat or drink anything prior to our exam depending on the procedure you are having performed.

The technologist will ask you questions before you have your procedure. It is very important for them to know if you:

• Are allergic to any medicines
• Are or might be pregnant
• Have a pacemaker, artificial limb, any metal pins or metal parts in your body (especially in the eyes), metal heart valves, metal clips in your brain, metal implants in your ear, tattooed eyeliner, or any other implanted or prosthetic medical device (such as a medicine infusion pump)
• If you have worked around metal
• If you have recently had surgery on a blood vessel
• Have an intrauterine device (IUD) in place
• Become very nervous in confined spaces
• Have any other health conditions, such as kidney problems or sickle cell anemia
• Wear any medication patches
• Need an interpreter. MultiCare will provide an interpreter specialized in medical terminology for patients who are not proficient in English. Unfortunately, family members of patients can not be interpreters.

Check with the technologist or radiologist if you have any questions or concerns about implanted objects or health conditions that could impact your MRI.

Getting your results
A radiologist will analyze the images and send a signed report with his or her interpretation to your healthcare provider.