MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) creates computer-enhanced images of internal body structures without the use of x-ray.  Instead, a magnetic field and radio waves combine to measure molecular shifting within the body. The resulting images show the differences between healthy and unhealthy body tissues, making MRI particularly helpful when diagnosing conditions and diseases affecting the brain, spinal column, breasts, abdomen, pelvis, and joints such as the elbows and knees.

Before Your Exam: MRI exams generally require little or no special preparation. Unless your physician specifies otherwise, it is okay to eat and drink prior to your exam.  Jewelry, watches and other objects containing metal should be left at home, as they can interfere with the magnetic field of MRI equipment.  Please avoid wearing makeup to your exam as well, since some cosmetics contain metal.

Time Required for Your Exam: MRI exams generally last 30-45 minutes, but some can take up to an hour.

Who Performs Your Exam: Certified MRI Technologist will perform your exam.

During Your Exam: As the scan begins, you will lay down on a padded table that gently slides you into the opening of the MRI machine.  During the scan, you will occasionally hear thumps and humming, but these sounds are normal and should not worry you.  In order to obtain the highest quality images possible it is important that you relax and lay still throughout the entire process.

After Your Exam: A radiologist will analyze the images obtained during your MRI and send a written report to your doctor, typically within 48 hours.

This procedure can be performed at either Adventist Medical Center or here at Gresham Imaging Center.