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Overview

What is a MRI?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI as it is referred to, is a patient examination utilizing a magnetic field and radio waves to produce a highly accurate view of the bone and soft tissue inside of your body. It's painless and extremely safe because no radiation is used.

Aided by a computer, MRI is ale to produce an image of bone and soft tissue from many different body angles or planes. This enables your radiologist to quickly and precisely diagnose a wide variety of conditions.

What will the exam be like?
You will be met by your MRI technologist who will be performing your examination. This technologist has completed a rigorous course of education and training, and works under close supervision of the radiologist to assure the most accurate results from your examinations.

Next, your technologist will position and gently secure you on the imaging table. It's important that you be secured, because even the slightest movement during the exam can blur the image and result in the need for repeated scans.

When you and your technologist are ready, the examination table will be moved into the MRI unit, which is a small air-conditioned chamber. Your technologist will have you in full view at all times and be in constant communication via two-way microphones. You won't feel a thing, but you may hear the hum of the equipment as the images are being produced. Some people find the small size of the chamber disconcerting, but the vast majorities are able to go through the procedure without difficulty.

You may be given a contrast medium to highlight a particular part of your body. The contrast medium outlines less dense, hollow vessels and organs for visualizations. This medium is eliminated within a few hours or a day or two depending on the area under examination and the type of contrast utilized.

How long will the exam take?
The exam usually takes from 30 to 60 minutes. Time may vary significantly, depending on the nature of the study and other factors.

How will I learn the results?
The Radiologist will study your exam and consult with your doctor. Your doctor will then meet with you to discuss the results.

What should I keep in mind when preparing for a MRI?
Tell your doctor or technologist if you are:

  • Pregnant or think you may be; have had surgery or suffer from claustrophobia (morbid fear of confined or closed-in places).
  • Have metal implants, joint replacements or if you wear a pacemaker. This is very important!

You should wear:

  • Comfortable clothing.
  • Avoid wearing jewelry and eye make-up, metallics may interfere with the accuracy of the film image.

Be sure to ask any questions relating to your examination. They will help the evaluation.

For more information, contact the Departments of Radiology at:

Evanston Hospital 847.570.2462
Glenbrook Hospital 847.657.5860
Highland Park Hospital 847.480.3743