What to Expect from Your Appointment

MRIs have increasingly come to play an important role in diagnostic medicine, and as a result, many patients require an MRI exam at some point. While this procedure has become increasingly common, many patients still aren’t entirely sure what to expect when they show up for their appointment. At Primero Med, we make it our goal to ensure the comfort and satisfaction of our clients, so we are happy to provide a brief breakdown of what to expect from your appointment:

Before the Exam

You should dress comfortably and casually, avoiding clothes that may contain metallic elements such as zippers or fasteners. Bring your insurance card, driver’s license, and, if applicable, the order or referral form that your physician may have provided you with.

You should arrive 15 minutes early in order to fill out insurance forms and any other necessary paperwork.

During the Exam

The MRI itself can take anywhere from 20 to 60 minutes. Prior to entering the machine, you may need to remove jewelry, glasses, hearing aids, metallic objects, and other items in order to ensure a high-quality image.

During the exam, you will need to remain as still as possible in order to allow the imaging process to yield the best possible results. For this reason, it is often advisable to avoid coffee or any other drinks containing caffeine before your appointment.

It may be necessary for a contrast agent to be introduced in order for the image to be rendered clearer. If so, an experienced technologist will provide you with a small intravenous injection of the fluid contrast agent at a minimum level of discomfort.

The exam itself is a non-invasive procedure that does not involve any sensation, discomfort, or pain. However, you may hear intermittent banging noises coming from the machine. Earplugs or headphones can help minimize the noise and prevent any anxiety you may experience as a result.

After the Exam

Once the exam is over, you will be able to go home on your own. For patients who require the use of a sedative, it is requested that they have another person available to drive them home.

Contact Us

If you have any other questions about what you can expect from your appointment, or if you want to learn more about our services, don’t hesitate to contact the Austin MRI experts at Primero Med today by calling (888) 360-8538.