About Your Visit/Exam Prep

When you’re preparing for an MRI procedure, the most important thing to remember is that the M stands for “magnetic.” Leave all of your jewelry, hair clips, and hair bands at home, and if you prefer not to wear a gown for your procedure, examine the clothing you plan to wear carefully. No zipper, no grommets, no metal snaps or buttons. Cotton clothing with elastic band and plastic buttons are ideal. If the technicians have concerns over the safety of the clothing you’re wearing, they will ask you to change into a gown for your protection. If you have any type of medical implants, please let us know. These might include:

  • Pacemaker
  • History of Kidney Problems
  • Neurostimulators
  • Implanted Drug Infuser
  • Artificial Heart Valves
  • Aneurysm Clips
  • Cochlear Implants
  • Metal Implants or Prosthetics
  • Vascular Stent or Stent Graft
  • History as Metal Worker
  • Other Exposure to Metal Fragments
  • Shrapnel or Bullet Wounds
  • Dorsal Column Stimulators

If you’re pregnant or might be pregnant, have a history of kidney problems or diabetes, or a known allergy to iodine or gadolinium, tell us when you schedule your appointment. If you have claustrophobia, let us know when you schedule your appointment. Depending on the type and location of the scan your doctor needs, we may be able to use an open MRI. If that’s not an option for the images you need, we can prescribe medication to help you remain calm and still during the procedure. Please bring a list of your current medications when you come for your appointment.