An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a medical test that allows doctors to examine your internal organs, skeletal system, and tissue. These tests can help diagnose illness and disorders and allow your doctor to determine treatment options as early as possible.
Many people come in for their MRI appointment full of nerves. They may worry about the radiation dosage (though MRI actually uses none). They may be anxious about their claustrophobia. Whatever the case may be, BICRAD takes every step to ensure you’re absolutely comfortable during your exam— let’s walk through the procedure together, shall we?
What Is An MRI Procedure Like?
The MRI machine uses magnets and radio waves to create an image of internal systems. It can also create 3D images to get a good look at what is going on. Let’s go through some of the most common questions folks have about their MRI procedure:
How Long Does an MRI Take?
Depending on the type of scan, your MRI may take from 15 minutes up to an hour.
What Happens During an MRI?
MRI prep is easy. You must remove all metal from your body (piercings, keys, hairpins, etc.) and wear a gown or approved clothing. The machine uses strong magnets, so you cannot enter the room with anything metal.
You then lie down on a movable table, which slides into the opening of the MRI machine. The technician will remain in an adjoining room and speak to you through a microphone during the procedure. One of the key things to know is that it’s important that you remain very still throughout the procedure for the imaging to work.
Although the procedure is painless, it is normal to feel a bit of stress or anxiety surrounding the exam. For patients who are claustrophobic, however, the experience may feel like a nightmare.
To soothe this anxiety, BICRAD allows you to use special headphones that can connect to your own music, or goggles to view images or shows. The doctor may also give you a mild sedative to help you calm down so you can remain still.
Those who suffer from extreme anxiety or claustrophobia may have a panic attack while inside the machine. Therefore, BICRAD uses a Cinemavision system combined with MRI goggles to help patients relax. In fact, you may enjoy the experience so much you forget you are inside an MRI machine!
Young patients may also have trouble staying still, and to avoid the need for sedation, the Cinemavision system is a great option.
Experience MRI In A New Way
If you need an MRI in California and are interested in learning more about how pleasant it can actually be, contact BICRAD today to discuss our dramatically different approach to patient comfort.