MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

What is an MRI?

MRI uses a strong magnet and harmless radio waves — no X-rays and no radiation — to create remarkably detailed pictures of soft tissues like the brain, spine, joints, abdomen, and pelvis. It is the most powerful imaging tool we have for many neurologic, musculoskeletal, and oncologic questions.

What it's used for

• Brain and spine: stroke, multiple sclerosis, tumors, herniated discs
• Joints: knees, shoulders, hips, ankles, wrists
• Abdomen and pelvis: liver, pancreas, kidneys, prostate, uterus
• Breast imaging in select higher-risk situations
• Cancer detection, staging, and follow-up
• Heart and blood vessel imaging

How to prepare

The most important step is telling us about anything metallic in or on your body: pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants, aneurysm clips, bullets or shrapnel, certain dental devices, or metal shavings in your eyes. Some implants are MRI-safe and some are not — we'll review yours before scheduling.

• Leave jewelry, watches, hearing aids, and credit cards at home (the magnet erases magnetic strips)
• For abdominal MRI, you may be asked to stop eating 4 hours before
• Wear loose clothes without metal — most facilities provide a gown
• Tell us if you might be pregnant or are claustrophobic

What to expect during your exam

You'll lie on a padded table that slides into the cylindrical magnet (sometimes called the "tube" or "bore"). The scanner makes loud knocking and humming sounds during imaging, so we'll provide earplugs or headphones with music.

You'll need to hold still and follow simple breathing instructions. Most exams take 20 to 60 minutes. Some scans use IV contrast (gadolinium) for sharper images of blood vessels and tissues.

Is it safe?

MRI uses no ionizing radiation and is considered very safe for most people. The main concern is metal — it can move, heat up, or distort images — which is why we screen carefully beforehand.

Gadolinium contrast is generally well tolerated; we check kidney function before giving it. Pregnant patients can usually undergo MRI without contrast in the second and third trimesters when needed.

After your exam

You can resume normal activities immediately. If you received gadolinium contrast, drink water to help clear it from your body. Your radiologist will interpret the images and send a report to your physician, typically the same day.