OSF St. Mary Medical Center
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) & MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography) are exams done by an extremely powerful magnet. The magnet along with coils producing radio-frequencies produces detailed images of the body.
MRI safety is of utmost concern, and patients will be screened at least twice before being allowed to have an MRI scan.
The biggest concern that patients typically have with MRI scans is claustrophobia. There are some techniques that can be used to assist with this concern:
During the MRI or MRA exam, you will hear loud noises. This is the magnet & nothing to worry about. There is a two way microphone so the technologist can talk to you and can hear you.
Some of the MRI exams use an IV contrast agent. If your exam needs this, you will have a small needle placed in your arm or hand. The contrast is administered & more images will be taken.
For all MRI & MRA exams:
For MRI exams of the abdomen:
An extensive checklist and history will be filled out by the technologist to make certain you are safe to have an MRI exam.