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MRI - Chest
Explanation of the Exam
CT and ultrasound (echocardiography) are currently the primary cross-sectional technique for
imaging the chest and heart, respectively. MRI can be extremely helpful in specific instances,
often as a problem-solving tool after an indeterminate or confusing CT or echocardiographic
exam.
The patient lies on a special table inside the MRI scanner, with a radio receiver antenna, or
"coil", over the body part being scanned. A series of pictures are taken, each set taking
anywhere from a few seconds to 10 minutes. Up to 10 of these series are obtained, each designed
to bring out a specific feature of the tissue being imaged and/or changing the orientation of
the slice images. A special kind of contrast, different from that used in x-ray or CT
examinations, may be injected by vein.
Approximate Exam Time
30-60 minutes
Preparation Instructions
Instructions will be given at the time of scheduling the exam. Leave jewelry, coins, hairpins,
pagers, cellular phones, watches, credit cards or any other objects that might be affected by
the powerful magnet at home or give these objects to the MRI staff for safekeeping during the
exam. Please inform the staff if you have a pacemaker, prosthesis, surgical clips, metal
implants, tattoos, body piercing or any other internal metal objects. Please inform the staff
if there is any possibility of PREGNANCY at the time of scheduling your appointment.
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