Patient Information for
Neuroradiology MR Imaging

What is a MRI?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an imaging technique that employs a noninvasive strong magnetic field and radiowaves to create images.

What happens prior to the MRI study?

1. You will be require to complete a detailed information sheet ensuring your safety.

2. The technologist will inform you regarding what will happen during your procedure.

3. It is important that you disclose if you have any metal fragments or metal wires implanted in your body. If you have a pacemaker, cerebral aneurysm clip, metal implants, implanted electronic devices, neural stimulators, or if you could be pregnant.

What personnel can you expect to meet?

You will meet a receptionist in the reception area who handles any paperwork related to your study. Nurses and technologists will assist you during the study. A radiologist will review the images and dictate a formal report that will be sent to your doctor.

How long does an MRI study take?

An MRI study takes between 1 and 2 hours. You can follow your normal routine, eat normally, and take your medications. There are however limitations in eating for children who undergo sedation or anesthesia. During the study you will have to remove some personal items, such as your watch, wallet, and car keys and they will be securely stored in the MR department during your study.

Contrast Material?

In certain cases the radiologist orders contrast material to be used to improve the image quality. Contrast material is a fluid that is injected into a vein, usually in your arm. It is not the same material as used in radiology or CT examinations.

What happens during the MR study?

During the MR study you will be laying in the MR scanner, which is a tunnel-like device. You should lay as still as possible to avoid motion artifacts on the images. The length of your stay in the magnet is approximately 45 minutes per body part examined, but this amount of time depends on your unique history.

When do I find out the results?

The MR images are reviewed and interpreted by a radiologist. A report will be dictated, typed, and sent to the physician that referred you for the study. He/she will contact you to discuss the findings and what to do next.