Prepare for Your
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
An MRI scan produces pictures of internal body structures. Each exam will take 15 to 45 minutes. Because an MRI uses a magnetic field, there is no risk of radiation exposure.
Printable Instructions to Prepare for Your MRI (PDF)
Prior to your appointment, please let us know if you are or may be pregnant, or if you have:
- A pacemaker, aneurysm clips, or other metallic implants or devices
- Had any previous surgeries
- Transdermal/medication patches
- Had metal removed from your eyes
- An intrauterine device (IUD)
- A gunshot wound
- Had a recent endoscopy/colonoscopy
Before your MRI scan:
- A radiology nurse will contact you 24-48 hours prior to your exam to discuss your medical history and current medications
- Please bring previous imaging studies with you to your exam (MRI or CT reports and images)
- You are welcome to bring your favorite CD to listen to during your exam
- You will be asked to change into a gown, and remove any jewelry, hearing aids, eyeglasses, or removable dental work
- If you are having a non-enhanced scan (no contrast medium), eat and drink as you normally would
- If you are having an enhanced scan (with contrast medium), do not eat or drink for one hour before the scan
- If you have questions or require more information about your exam, please feel free to contact a radiology nurse at 612.879.1528 (8 am - 4 pm)
During the MRI scan:
- A two-way intercom will allow you to talk to your technologist any time during the exam
- If you are having an enhanced scan, a contrast medium will be injected through an IV into your arm or hand
- You will be asked to lie still to prevent the images from blurring
- While the noise experienced during an MRI varies depending on the scan sequences, below is one example of what you may hear
Listen to an MRI (12 KB .wav file)
Test Results:
Following the MRI examination, a radiologist analyzes the images and sends a report to your doctor, who will then discuss the results with you.