Open MRI Unit Most exams can be performed on the Open MRI such as brain, spine, pelvis and extremity studies. Although the resolution of some studies is not as good as high field MRI, this technology has become an alternative for claustrophobic patients who can not tolerate the high field magnet design. Imaging takes longer with this technology, usually one hour per exam. Specialized neuroimaging studies, such as pituitary, optic nerve and internal auditory canal are best performed on a high field unit. The MRI scan is performed inside a large cylindrical magnet with a patient table in the center. Conscious sedation is available at all locations for the highly claustrophobic patient. However, a doctor's order is necessary and the appointment must be scheduled with conscious sedation so that the patient can be given special instructions prior to arrival at the MRI facility. What to Expect: You will be asked to fill out a questionnaire about your symptoms, prior studies and prior surgeries. Because you will be entering a room with a strong magnet, we need to know of any metal or implants on or in your body. For example, pacemakers, metal implants, aneurysm clips, surgical staples, bullet wound or shrapnel, implanted drug infusion devise, bone stimulators, or permanent eyeliner. If you were issued a card with the exact manufacturer and serial number of the device, please bring that card with you to your appointment. If you have had occupational or recreational exposure to metal (welding, grinding, etc), you will need to have an radiograph to make sure that you don't have any metal fragments in the eyes, because they can sometimes migrate in a strong magnet, even years after the exposure. You will be asked to lie flat on the table, and then a "coil" will be placed over the area of interest. The coil typically looks like an athletic ice wrap and can be rigid or somewhat flexible. The table moves slowly into the scanner that houses a large magnet. During the procedure, you will be able to communicate with the technologist by an intercom. The technologist can also watch you through a small camera. The technologist will be in constant dialog with you and notify you when to expect a loud or unusual sound. Typical open MRI studies require 60 minutes. It is important to remain motionless throughout the exam. Some MRI exams require an injection of an MRI contrast or dye. This is completely different from the contrast agent or dye used for x-ray tests such as an IVP or CT scan. If you are over age 65 or have diabetes, high blood pressure or any history of kidney or severe liver disease or transplant we will need the results of blood tests for kidney function before we give intravenous contrast Preparation: If you can, please leave loose jewelry and watches at home. Otherwise, you will be required to place them in a locker with your cell phone, pager, blackberry, glasses, and anything else that contains metal. Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) Nothing to eat or drink four hours prior to exam. All other MR exams There is no special preparation. Locations for Open MRI: • St. Francis Imaging Center, Midlothian Commonwealth Radiology, P.C. 1508 Willow Lawn Dr. Ste. 117 Richmond, Virginia 23230 804-288-8327 www.commonwealthradiology.com