MRI
MRI Magnetic Resonance Imaging, (MRI) is a medical diagnostic imaging technique used to diagnose and plan the treatment of many diseases. Compared to imaging techniques that use X-rays, such as computerized axial tomography (CAT), an MRI generates detailed 2D and 3D images of the soft tissues of the body. These images greatly improve the ability for doctors to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissues.
To produce an image, an MRI scanner uses a powerful magnet to generate a magnetic field. When a patient lies within this field, the nuclei of proton atoms within the body align themselves with the magnetic field. Radiofrequency (RF) waves are then pulsed through the body, causing the nuclei to change their alignment with respect to the axis of the magnetic field. As the proton atoms return to their previous state after each RF pulse, they produce faint, distinctive radio signals. These signals are detected by coils around the body and processed by a computer to produce images of internal structures. The magnetic field is quite strong and always on. Due to the strong magnetic field each patient or visitor entering the magnet room will be screened for any metallic surgical implants and any loose metallic items, such as jewelry, watches, keys, hair pins, etc.
What You Can Expect
MRIs are painless and do not involve any ionizing radiation. However, MRI scanners are quite loud when producing images and ear protection, such as ear plugs or headphones will be provided for patients. The MRI technologist will perform a thorough MRI safety screening, consisting of a patient-provided form and use of a metal detector. A parent or caregiver is welcome to accompany a patient into the magnet room and entertainment and/or sedation is readily available if applicable for patients.
How You Can Prepare
To help ensure your child’s safety bring a list of your child’s medications and information about any internal surgical implant your child may have. Your child should wear clothing without metal, such as zippers, buckles, or snaps. Hospital garments or scrubs will be provided if needed. Follow any and all eating instructions given by the MRI receptionist. If your child is being sedated for the MRI procedure, a Riley Radiologist will call with specific eating and arrival instructions. On the day of your child’s MRI procedure, a Riley Anesthesiologist will discuss with you the sedation process. After the MRI procedure, your child will be monitored by a Riley Radiology RN until it is time for your child to safely leave the hospital. An MRI receptionist will call 2-3 days in advance to confirm your appointment time, eating instructions, arrival time and begin the surgical implant screening process. Please be on time.
What Happens During an MRI Procedure
Once your child is prepared for the MRI, he or she will be positioned on the MRI table by a pediatric-trained MRI technologist. The MRI technologist will ensure your child is as comfortable as possible, informed of the entire procedure before beginning the scan and asked to remain very still during the imaging process to ensure high quality images. If your child is not being sedated for the procedure, a parent or caregiver may be present for the entire MRI. Once the scanning begins, your child will be constantly monitored by the pediatric trained MRI technologist who will give your child instructions throughout the exam. Your child may be given instructions to hold their breath for particular cardiac and abdominal imaging, and told when to release breath by the technologist. Most MRI procedures will take between 30-60 minutes.
What Happens After the MRI Procedure?
Your child’s MRI results will be made available to your referring physician within 24-48 hours. Your physician will then contact you with the results and discuss further options and treatments available for your child based on the MRI results.