Preparation Instructions for Patients
Your imaging test may require special preparation for you to follow prior to and during your appointment. In addition, your doctor or one of our staff members may include additional instructions (e.g. what you may eat before your test, what to wear on the day of your test, etc.).
If you have any questions that haven’t been answered here, please call us at (877) 674-8888.
MRI
MRI does not utilize any form of ionizing radiation, so no special preparation is needed. You may eat normally and take your regular medication. Please wear comfortable clothing, like sweats. Clothing with zippers, metal buttons or snaps cannot be worn. This includes underwire bras as well. If needed, a cotton dressing gown will be available for you to use. Because of the potentially harmful effects associated with all metallic objects in a magnetic field, you should check with your physician or MRI Technologist if you have:
- – Pacemaker
- – Ear implants
- – Surgical staples
- – Neuro-stimulator
- – Aneurysm clip(s)
- – Implanted drug infusion devices
- – Worked as a welder or grinder of metal
- – Worked as a welder or grinder of metal
CT
CT scan is a more detailed imaging technology than an X-RAY. It involves the use of computer and X-rays to create images of bones, organs and tissues. It’s a painless and swift procedure. X-rays used in CT scans, produce ionizing radiation. Consult your doctor to learn more about the potential effects and benefits of CT scans. If a patient is a child, then ask the technician or doctor about setting adjustments of the CT scan machine. Also inform the physician if you are pregnant, prior to undergoing the procedure, then the doctor would recommend undergoing an imaging technology that is radiation-free.
X-Ray
X-rays create images of the internal parts of our body. They are a type of radiation, known as, electromagnetic waves. X-rays create images in shades of white and black, because the amount of radiation absorbed by tissues varies — for example, soft tissues, and fat absorbs low level of radiation that creates gray shades, while bones absorb the most radiation of their calcium content that lead white shades of images. It’s a quick and painless imaging procedure. Though the radiation exposure is low, one must consult with their physician prior to undergoing the same, especially if you are pregnant or suspect to have conceived — then you will be recommended to undergo a radiation-free imaging process, like an ultrasound.