Are your hands sweating and your heart palpitating in anticipation of your upcoming MRI scan? Do you already feel like walls are surrounding you?

Even the most composed and steady person may become a bit anxious before an MRI, even though they are safer and painless than X-rays because they don’t release radiation. Banner Imaging is available to assist in quieting your nerves and relieve your mind. We make sure you have a comfortable and enjoyable experience by outlining exactly what to expect before, during, and after your MRI scan near me.

Do not worry if it is your first MRI examination; you will not be alone. The United States alone does nearly 40 million MRI scans every year. MRI scans, for example, differ from other imaging techniques because your doctor can get a better feel for your condition because they see the soft interior tissue and the bones.

Did you know that there are also several kinds of MRI scanners? Though the donut-shaped MRI scanner, also called the classic machine, is the one you are most likely to see, there are no other possibilities. Most likely, you are unaware that not all radiology facilities have every kind of MRI scanner available. Among them are:

• Conventional MRI: A patient lies inside a sizable tube, about 23.5 inches in diameter, in a typical MRI scanner.
• Wide Bore MRI: Measuring around 27.5 inches in width, this machine is much the same as a standard MRI. The broad bore is perfect for individuals who are claustrophobic or larger in stature.
• Open MRI: Often compared to a flying saucer or hamburger bun, the open MRI scanner allows patients to see more of the space on both sides of them and has increased airflow.
• Standing or Sitting MRI: Due to poor image quality, this equipment is usually only helpful in certain situations. The device was made for people who cannot lie down because of a medical ailment or injury.

According to Stephanie St Jean, MRI coordinator and supervisor at Banner Imaging, “we provide both traditional MRI and wide bore MRI scans as well as open MRI scan near me at a hospital, clinics, and many of our imaging locations.”

What to Expect The Day of MRI?

You can go about your daily routine as usual on the morning of your scan, including taking regular medicine and eating breakfast unless directed otherwise.

To ensure your safety, a series of screening questions, including information on recent surgeries and medical history, will be asked of you when you arrive at the imaging center. The most critical safety measure is to ensure you don’t wear or carry any metal within you.

Although each person’s experience will be unique, keep in mind the following:

• Make an early arrival: This will allow you enough time to complete any further documentation and any other preparation that may be required. Usually, the imaging center will provide you with a window of time to arrive and allow for this.
• Put on new clothes: As was mentioned earlier, any metallic items that can pose risks to the scanning process and your safety, including, but not limited to, jewelry, eyeglasses, hairpins, and underwire bras, should be removed. The office will provide a patient with a gown or scrubs to wear during examination and a place to store personal belongings safely.
• Secure a ride home: If you intend to use a sedative or medication, make arrangements in advance by having someone either come with you or ask someone to pick you up once the procedure is complete.

What to Expect During MRI Exam?

You should be aware that your comfort is the most vital factor during your exam. During the examination, your technologist will provide specific instructions, blankets, earplugs, and a unique button or instrument to interact with them. Your test will take 20 to 90 minutes, depending on what needs to be scanned.

The following are some things to anticipate on the exam:

• Table with cushions: The imaging technologist will have you lie on a padded table that slides into the bore (tunnel) where the scanning will occur if the machine is an open or wide-bore MRI scan near me.
• Press the call button: Your technician will give you a call button so that you can notify them in case of an issue.
• Loud thudding sounds: You will occasionally hear sounds brought on by shifting magnetic fields. While some people may find the clunk, clunk, clunk, and buzz sound slightly unsettling, it’s not something to be alarmed about. To help block out some of the noise, you can listen to music or use earplugs or a headset with sound cancellation.
• Stay still: The secret to a successful MRI exam is to stay as calm as you can. Try to remain motionless while allowing your thoughts to wander. While heavy breathing may be soothing, it may interfere with the chest or abdomen scan. If necessary, your technologist may give you specific instructions on how to hold your breath.

Conclusion 

An MRI near me is not something to fear despite the machines being frightening. These examinations are vital resources that help your doctor better understand your condition and choose how to treat you.

Has your physician advised getting an MRI? In that case, act quickly. Locate the closest hospital to you or contact us via phone. The certified imaging staff at Banner is always available to assist. During your MRI exam, please ask us any questions you may have.