Frequently Asked Questions:

1. What is an MRI?
2. How does the MRI work?
3. What if I don’t like confined spaces (claustrophobic)?
4. What should I share with my physician prior to the MRI?
5. How do I prepare for the MRI?
6. What will happen during the examination?
7. How long does the MRI take?
8. Are there any risks or precautions I should be aware of?
9. Where do I go for my MRI?
10. How do I obtain a copy of my MRI report?

1. What is an MRI?
MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. An MRI uses magnetic fields to take high-resolution pictures of your bones and soft tissues to produce cross-sectional images of your body. Unlike an X-Ray or CT scan, MRI does not use radiation.

The high-resolution images obtained with an MRI will often provide important additional information pertaining to your problem. Classic examples of where an MRI can be useful are detecting torn knee ligaments and cartilage, torn rotator cuffs, herniated discs, etc.

2. How does the MRI work?
MRI uses a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer to scan your body and reproduce detailed pictures that can not be seen with conventional x-rays. The MRI creates a magnetic field around you, then pulses radio waves to the area of your body that needs to be imaged. A computer records the rate at which your body's various tissues (tendons, ligaments, nerves, etc.) give off these signals, and translates the data into a detailed, two-dimensional picture. These pictures may then assist your physician in making a diagnosis and planning a treatment that is right for you. You won't feel any pain while undergoing an MRI.

3. What if I don’t like confined spaces (claustrophobic)?
Here at Palm Beach Sportsmedicine we use an open MRI machine. An open MRI machine is very spacious, allows for larger individuals to be scanned comfortably and is tolerated by most people who have a fear of confined spaces (claustrophobia).

4. What should I share with my physician prior to the MRI?
You can NOT have an MRI scan if you have any of the following:
i. A pacemaker
ii. Artificial heart valve
iii. Cochlear hearing implants
iv. Think you may be pregnant

It is extremely important to tell your physician if you have any metallic objects in your body, even if you merely suspect it. These materials may pose a risk to you during the MRI scan or interfere with the examination itself. Metallic objects include, but are not limited to:
v. Surgical clips
vi. Joint and bone pins
vii. Metal plates
viii. Embedded bullets, shrapnel, or a BB shot

5. How do I prepare for the MRI?
Limit the amount of fluids you drink on the day of the exam. You will have to remain still for 30 – 60 minutes so you don’t want to be worried about having a full bladder during the MRI. Otherwise, you may go about your normal routine.

When you arrive, you will need to remove anything metallic such as hearing aids, watches, jewelry and hairpins. Please allow your technologist to store your credit cards, watches, coins, cell phones and keys for safekeeping.

6. What will happen during the examination?
Prior to your test you will sit on the scanning table. You will relax while lying on your back with your arms at your side. You will need to lie still on the table until the scan is complete. You will not feel anything during the exam. If you need to talk to the technician during your exam there is a two-way intercom for communication. Of note, we have a wide variety of music for you to choose from; however, you are more than welcome to bring a CD of your favorite music.

7. How long does the MRI take?
MRI’s usually take between 30 to 40 minutes; however, the total time will vary based on the specific area of the body that is scanned.

8. Are there any risks or precautions I should be aware of?
There are no known harmful effects from receiving an MRI since the machine uses magnetic and radio waves (rather than radiation used in other imaging techniques).

9. Where do I go for my MRI?
When you come in for your MRI you will enter the main lobby of the office just as you would for a regular office visit.

10. How do I obtain a copy of my MRI report?
Please give the office ample time to prepare a copy of your MRI. A notice of at least 24 hours is typically required.

A copy of the MRI report is free of charge.
A copy of the MRI on a compact disc (CD) is $10.00.
A copy of the MRI on actual sheets is $10.00 per sheet.