After you arrive for your appointment, you will be escorted to a procedure or dressing room, where you will be asked to change into a patient gown. Next, the technologist will position you on a cushioned table that will move into the tube-shaped scanner. After you have been properly positioned, the technologist will begin obtaining the MRI images.

The MRI machine creates a magnetic field around you and directs radio waves at your body to create the MRI images. You won't feel the magnetic field or radio waves, but you may hear loud tapping and thumping sounds coming from inside the machine. While the images are obtained, you will be instructed when to hold your breath. You will be asked to lie as still as possible to avoid blurred images. The technologist will monitor you from another room. You will be able to speak to the technologist through a microphone, and the technologist will also be able to talk to you. Most exams take 20 to 60 minutes, after which you can return to normal activities.

When preparing for your exam, please check with your physician or MRI technologist if you have the following:

• A pacemaker
• Ear implants
• Surgical staples
• A neuro-stimulator
• Aneurysm clip(s)
• Implanted drug infusion devices
• Worked as a welder or grinder of metal