The Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology provides high quality Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) services. Our staff is dedicated to providing each of our patients with the highest possible levels of care and skill, as well as assuring a satisfying diagnostic experience. MRI is one of the easiest and most comfortable tests you may ever have.
What is an MRI?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is one of the most advanced imaging technologies available. Instead of X-ray radiation, it uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create cross-sectional views of your body. MRI helps physicians to diagnose medical conditions, and often eliminates the need for biopsy or other invasive procedures.
What happens during an MRI test?
Please arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your exam to complete any paperwork and answer a series of questions regarding your medical history. These questions include:
- Are you pregnant?
- Are you claustrophobic?
- Have you had brain surgery?
- Do you have any medical devices such as:
- Cardiac pacemaker or artificial heart valve?
- Cerebral aneurysm clip?
- Metal implants?
- Neurostimulators?
- Middle ear prosthesis (or recent inner ear surgery)?
- Metal shrapnel, or metal fragments in your eyes or body?
Advance notice of the above conditions will enable us to discuss your situation with your doctor. If you have had a previous MRI, please inform your Patient Care Coordinator.
For your safety, we will ask you to sign a consent form indicating that you understand and agree to have the test. We will ask you to remove and store your personal possessions, such as your watch, wallet (credit cards can be erased) and car keys prior to the testing.
During the test you will lie flat on a padded examination table which slowly slides into the center of the magnet. Although you will feel nothing during the test, you will hear intermittent “humming” and “thumping” sounds similar to a drum beat. You will be in contact with the MRI staff throughout your test through a special intercom. A stereo system is available for your listening pleasure (use of headsets is restricted with some scans).
Your physician may order an image enhancement agent to make the MRI images clearer. Our trained technologist will inject this contrast agent into a vein in your arm near the end of the test.
The average scan takes from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the parts of the body being viewed. Several sets of images are taken for each study. It is important that you remain relaxed and completely still during the scan because any movement may reduce image quality. When scanning is complete, the technologist will assist you from the table. You may resume normal activities following your exam.
A Board Certified neuro-radiologist will interpret your scan and provide results to your doctor. Your doctor will then inform you of the results and may even be able to show you your images on a computer screen.
The Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology will bill you (or your insurance company) for your MRI. This fee includes the radiologist interpretation fee, the technician’s services, use of the equipment, film processing and supplies. Please call (763) 588-0661 with any questions about this bill.
How should I prepare for the MRI test?
If you have had a previous MRI, please inform your Patient Care Coordinator. You may eat as usual prior to the exam; however, you may wish to avoid caffeine so that you are able to lie quietly for several minutes at a time. You may take your normal medications before and after your appointment.
Please do not wear jewelry, hearing aids, dentures, or other metal objects which may interfere with the magnetic field. If your clothing contains metal, such as zippers, snaps, under wire bras, or bra hooks, you may be asked to change into a gown. Comfortable, athletic clothing without snaps or zippers works well.
Locations:
Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology – Golden Valley/Main Office
(763) 287-2300, select option #1
Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology – Burnsville Office
(952) 435-8516
Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology – Coon Rapids Office
(763) 427-8320
Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology – Edina Office
(952) 920-7200
Minneapolis Clinic of Neurology – Maple Grove Office
(763) 302-4114