MRI and Imaging Appointments: Safety Screening and What to Expect

Booking an imaging appointment

Imaging exams such as MRI, CT and many X-rays need an order from a provider. When you book:

• Confirm the exact exam ordered (for example, MRI of a specific body area, with or without contrast).
• Ask whether your insurance requires prior authorization and whether it has been approved.
• Ask about preparation: eating and drinking, medicines, and how early to arrive for paperwork.
• Mention if you have claustrophobia, need help moving, or need an interpreter.

MRI safety screening

RadiologyInfo.org, a patient site run by the American College of Radiology and the Radiological Society of North America, explains that MRI uses a powerful magnetic field, radio waves and a computer, and does not use X-ray radiation. The magnetic field is not harmful, but it may cause some medical devices to malfunction. It says most orthopedic implants pose no risk, but you should always tell the technologist about any devices or metal in your body.

Expect detailed screening questions about:

• pacemakers, defibrillators, neurostimulators, cochlear implants or medicine pumps;
• surgical clips, implants, shrapnel or metal fragments (including past metalwork injuries to the eyes);
• pregnancy, allergies, recent surgeries and kidney problems if contrast may be used.

Bring any implant cards you were given. RadiologyInfo also advises telling your doctor about health problems, recent surgeries, allergies and possible pregnancy.

What to wear and bring

• Comfortable clothes without metal; you may be asked to change into a gown.
• Leave jewelry and other metal items at home if you can.
• Photo ID, insurance card, your order if it’s on paper, and a list of medicines.
• Previous imaging results from other facilities, if your doctor wants a comparison.

During and after the exam

Follow the technologist’s instructions; holding still helps produce clear images. RadiologyInfo says a radiologist — a doctor trained to supervise and interpret radiology exams — reviews the images and sends a report to the doctor who ordered the exam. Many facilities release reports to a patient portal, but you should follow up with your doctor so they can explain what the results mean. Sometimes a follow-up exam is recommended for more views or to check for changes over time.