How To Prepare For Your Scan

To minimize the chances of having to change into a gown, please note the following:

Wear clothes without metal zippers, buttons, or decorations, such as sweat pants, and pull over shirts
Certain exams require the bra to be removed
Certain exams may require jewelry to be removed, depending on its proximity to the part of the body being scanned. Watches must ALWAYS be removed.
Make sure to check your insurance coverage of an MRI scan before your scan.

Who May Not Have An MRI Scan

Patients with aneurysm clips inside the HEAD
Some patients with implanted neurostimulators
Patients with some cochlear (ear) implants
Patients with metallic objects inside the eye

Additional Information:

If you have any stage of renal disease please let us know.
Some patients may need an injection in the middle of the test. This will be decided by your doctor and/or radiologist.
Unless otherwise advised by your doctor, there is NO reason not to eat or drink before your MRI scan. If you are having your abdomen, or pelvis scanned, you may be asked to refrain from eating or drinking anything for a specified amount of time before your appointment.
If your doctor has medication prescribed for your MRI scan, make sure you bring someone with you, that is capable of driving you home. If there is no one to drive you home, you will be required to stay at that MDR location until the FULL effect of the medication has worn off, possibly as long as 6 hours.

Can I bring a friend or family member?

MDR allows a family member or friend to accompany patients into the exam room during their scan. The friend or family member is invited to sit outside the machine yet in the same MRI scan room and watch the procedure. Any accompanying guest must be able to follow the same safety restrictions as MDR patients.

How soon will I have the results?

An experienced radiologist will read your MRI scan and deliver his or her accurate, timely reading to your physician within 24 hours of the exam.

What if I have to cancel my MRI?

We understand that the unexpected can happen and you may need to reschedule or even cancel your MRI. We ask that you call us at least 48 hours in advance if possible. Please click HERE for our No Show policy.

Does an MRI hurt?

If you physician orders an MRI with contrast, it will be inserted through an IV. The only 'pain' you may experience is the insertion of the small needle.

How long does it take?

The average MRI scan takes 15-45 minutes. During this time, several dozen images may be obtained.

What's different about the Wide Bore MRI and an Open MRI?
The Wide Bore MRI provides an open feel, reducing anxiety for claustrophobic patients, as well as provides the ability to accommodate larger patients. The Wide Bore MRI offers the same high quality resolution and field strength as a conventional MRI.

The Open MRI is an alternative to the conventional MRI but scanning times may take longer and the image quality isn't quite as impressive.