All Services

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

What is MRI?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique that uses a magnetic field and computer-generated radio waves to create detailed images of the organs and tissues in your body. MRI is a noninvasive way for your doctor to examine your organs, tissues and skeletal system.

Because MRI uses powerful magnets, the presence of metal in your body can be a safety hazard if attracted to the magnet. Even if not attracted to the magnet, metal objects can distort the MRI image. Before having an MRI, you'll need to complete a questionnaire that includes whether you have metal or electronic devices in your body. If you do have metal or electronic devices you may not be able to have an MRI.

Our MRI Services

MRI services at Ellett Memorial Hospital are provided by Shared Medical Mobile Imaging. MRI exams are on alternating Fridays and are by-appointment-only. All patients scheduled for an MRI examination must complete a MRI screening questionnaire. If you are scheduled for an MRI at Ellett, on the Thursday before your exam a member of the radiology team will reach out to you to perform your screening questionnaire and give you an ETA for your appointment time. On Friday, you will receive a call letting you know what time your appointment will be.

During your MRI screening call, please let the radiologic technologist know if you have a history of claustrophobia (difficulty in tight spaces). Also let the technologist know if you have a history of welding, metal foreign body to the eye, or a metal foreign body to any region of your body. Patient history of metal foreign bodies may necessitate a screening X-ray prior to the MRI exam.

If you're scheduled for an MRI examination with IV Contrast, a laboratory blood draw may be required before your MRI examination.  Please let a member of the radiology team know if you have had any adverse reactions to MRI contrast in the past, or if you have renal disease/low renal function. 

MRI Exams:

  • Brain/Head
    • IAC, Pituitary, COW, Orbits, MRA Brain
    • Neck Soft Tissue
  • Chest
  • Abdomen/Pelvis
  • Spine
  • Upper Extremities
  • Lower Extremities
  • MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography)

How to prepare for an MRI Exam

  • Before an MRI exam, eat normally and continue to take your usual medications, unless otherwise instructed.
  • You will typically be asked to change into a gown and to remove things that might affect the magnetic imaging such as jewelry, hairpins, eyeglasses, watches, dentures, hearing aids, etc.
  • Wear loose, comfortable clothing and avoid metal buttons, snaps, zippers, etc.
  • Your exam might require you to be administered contrast, if so the MRI tech will gain venous access (IV) prior to your exam.
  • You may need to be NPO for some exams, your provider or radiology staff will let you know.