Photo of a nurse in front of an Open MRI

Exam Preparation

You should arrive a minimum of 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment in case you need to change your clothes or other preparations need to be made.

No special preparation is necessary before your exam. You may eat and drink as you normally do.

You may wear your own clothing if it contains no metal such as zippers, snaps, etc. A good choice would be comfortable, loose-fitting clothes. If your clothing is unsuitable, a dressing gown is provided.

A restroom and individual dressing rooms are available for your privacy. All metal objects, including coins, jewelry, credit cards and watches, will be secured in a locker.

Someone may stay with you during the exam. A comfortable lounge is available for other family members and friends.

The MRI contains a padded bed on which you will lie during the exam. An MRI technologist will be in continual voice and visual contact with you. Exams usually last 20-45 minutes.

The exam consists of a series of 4- to 7-minute scans. You will hear a soft knocking sound during the scanning periods. You should remain very still during the scanning periods, as any movement will cause poor images.