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MRI - Head
Explanation of the Exam
MR imaging of the head can diagnose diseases of the brain, meninges (lining of the brain), cranial
nerves, blood vessels, pituitary gland, inner ear, sinuses, and skull. With the exception of
acute bleeding, where CT is probably superior, MRI is the premier tool for imaging the brain.
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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