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Imaging Services at Methodist Medical Center

MRI

Female physician reviews MRI results on computer screens .

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive procedure that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed images of the body. Unlike conventional radiography and CT, no radiation is used. The facility features 1.5T and 3T magnets. The table weight limit is 550 pounds. 

All MRI technologists at Methodist Medical Center are American Registry of Radiologic Technologists® with advanced registry in MRI.

Male MRI tech reassures patient before he completes an exam.

MRI Services

You might require a MRI to get two-dimensional (2D) images of areas of the body being studied, such as:

How to Prepare For Your MRI

  • A technologist will call you the day prior to the exam. During this call, the technologist will question patients about metal implants, pacemakers, etc., and will help address any questions.
  • Patients are encouraged to wear comfortable clothing, but will be required to change into a hospital gown and pants prior to the start of the study.
  • Please bring a current written list of medications 
  • Arrive 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment to register 
  • Always inform the technologist or nurse if you are pregnant or may be pregnant. 
  • Some contrast exams will require you to be NPO (without food/drink for four hours) in order for the exam to be completed.
  • If you are diabetic, please contact your ordering provider to determine the safest way to prepare for your exam.
Female nurse explains to a patient what she can expect as part of her MRI exam.

Because of the strong magnets, certain metal objects are not allowed into the room:

  • Items such as jewelry, watches, credit cards, and hearing aids can be damaged 
  • Hair pins, safety pins, metal zippers, copper infused undergarments, and similar objects 
  • Removable dental work should be taken out prior to the exam 
  • Pens, pocket knives, and belts can be dangerous projectiles and should not be taken into the magnet room 
  • No magnetic eye make-up should be worn

MRI also should not be used for people with metal objects in their bodies, such as:

  • Some pacemakers, defibrillators, and neurostimulators 
  • Some brain aneurysm clips 
  • Some artificial heart valves 
  • Inner ear (cochlear) implants 
  • In addition to the above, Lululemon, a popular ath-leisure brand, has been found to have metal fibers in the clothing. It is important that patients change into a hospital-approved gown and pants to be safe.

People who are claustrophobic may have difficulty completing the exam. Ear plugs will be provided because of the loud noises generated from the MRI during normal operation. Exam time will vary and may be 30 minutes or greater. Some procedures require IV contrast after the initial exam. Therefore, a technologist may need to start an IV line so the contrast can be injected and the second phase of the scan will be completed. 

Upon arrival, you are registered and escorted to the MRI department where you will be asked about your medical history. If lab work is needed it will be completed prior to the exam. A technologist will explain the procedure prior to the exam and help answer questions. If requested by your physician, a CD will be provided prior to your discharge.

Results should be available within 48 hours and will be sent to your ordering physician. Results can be viewed on your personal patient portal 96 hours after dictation.

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