Magnetic resonance imaging, better known as an MRI, is a test that is often used in orthopedic medicine. While it is a very common procedure, people are often hesitant when they have not experienced it before. As orthopedic professionals, we are experts in the field, especially when it comes to treatment methods. We’re here to give you the background of what it is like to receive an MRI.
The Experience Of Receiving An MRI
The days leading up to an MRI, the day of, and even after being a lot less intimidating once you know what to expect. While everyone’s health situations are different, when it entails receiving an MRI, the experiences will all be similar. At South Shore Orthopedics, we are the experts at orthopedic care and are also here to answer your questions along the way.
Preparation
Preparing for an MRI is not an intensive process. According to the Mayo Clinic, before an MRI exam, you can continue to eat and take medication as normal. This is true unless your doctor has told you otherwise for a case-specific reason. Once you are at the hospital, you will be instructed to change into a gown and take off all things that may affect the magnetic imaging.
During The Procedure
After the initial preparations, it is time to actually receive an MRI. Here, the medical professionals will then move you into the room that the MRI machine resides in. According to Prevention.com, oftentimes during the MRI, you are allowed to listen to music to pass the time.
The MRI machine is tube-like in shape, open on both ends. The table on which you lie down on moves to bring you inside the machine. While this is occurring, the MRI specialist sits in another room monitoring your MRI session. They are accessible by the microphone in the room and can see you the entire time.
As the machine works, it is creating a magnetic field. This directs radio waves at your body. However, without knowing what was going on, you would not be able to tell because it all happens without you feeling a thing. There will be sounds you hear of the machine working, but you can wear headphones or earplugs to distract from the noise if necessary.
The Mayo Clinic details the length of time for an MRI to span from 15 minutes to over an hour. This requires holding still to ensure the image does not blur. This can depend on the part of the body being observed, but you will be made aware of the length of time before it begins.
For those who feel anxious in enclosed spaces, the doctor may give you a medication that makes you feel sleepy and less anxious. This can make your experience even more pleasant. For a majority of those who go through an MRI, it is a pleasant experience.
After The Procedure
Once your MRI is complete, there is virtually nothing to worry about after the procedure. The only case that requires more time is if you have been sedated. Otherwise, your day can go on as planned without having to worry about any post-procedure issues.
Following your MRI procedure, your results will be sent from the MRI facility over to the office at South Shore Orthopedics. Generally speaking, it takes 3-4 business days from the time the MRI was completed for the physician to review and interpret the results.
Now that you know a little more about what it is like to have an MRI, you do not have to be intimidated by the thought. Understanding the before, during, and after of any medical procedure takes away the fear of the unknown. MRIs are some of the most common tests in the world of orthopedic medicine. Do you have more questions about your upcoming MRI? The medical professionals at South Shore Orthopedics are here to help and answer any questions you may have. Check out our website or give us a call at (781) 337-5555.