THE EXAM
THE WASHINGTON OPEN MRI EXPERIENCE

The MRI exam is a simple and painless procedure. The MRI technologist or an assistant will help you lie down on the scanning bed after you have changed into a gown. Once you are comfortable, usually with the aid of some pillows and/or pads, you and the scanning bed will be moved into the specially designed magnet. Because of the MRI system's wide open design, you'll be able to see nearly everything around you during your exam.

Your MRI exam will take about 45 minutes to complete. The MRI system makes very little noise while in operation. It is, however, important that you lie as still as possible during the exam because any motion will affect the images being taken and may prevent the doctor from being able to make an accurate diagnosis. In all instances, it is possible for a family member to sit with the patient during the examination. This works well for small children who want to have their parents with them.

A specially designed coil will be positioned around the part of the body to be examined. This is done to help the MRI system obtain more detailed information about the portion of the body being examined. For some parts of the body, the doctor at the MRI location may want to use a contrast agent (dye) to better outline the body part being scanned. No additional precautions are required. If necessary, the doctor or technologist at the facility can answer any questions you may have regarding the use of the contrast agent.

Of course, at Washington Open MRI we will do everything we can to make you comfortable during your examination.