FAQ's about MRI

Open MRI vs. conventional MRI? Which is right for you?
At Tolland Imaging Center, we offer the modern open MRI technology. Open MRI is a comfortable and relaxed method of obtaining high quality diagnostic images. It is ideal for all patients, particularly for claustrophobic, elderly and larger individuals.

Are there any reasons I should not have an MRI scan done?
At Tolland Imaging Center, we pride ourselves on providing the highest standards for patient safety. Because of the potentially harmful effects associated with some metal objects in a magnetic field, you should check with your physician or our highly experienced MRI technologists if you have had any brain, heart, eye, ear or other surgeries.

Also, if you have had any of the following, please let the technologist know:

    • Metal implants
    • Surgical staples
    • Foreign metal objects in eye, or removed from eye
    • If you were/are a sheet metal worker/machinist
    • Have shrapnel, bullets or bullet wounds lodged in your body
    • Have an Intrauterine device (IUD)
    • If you are pregnant
    • Tatoos or piercings or other metal implants

You may not have an MRI scan if you have the following:

    • Pacemaker
    • Neuro-stimulator
    • Ferrous intracranial clips
    • Implanted drug infusion device

What are the risks of having an MRI scan?
MRI is a very safe procedure. There are no health risks associated with the magnetic field or radio waves produced during your exam. Please be patient with our staff as we proceed down a checklist of questions related to you and your study to further reduce any chance of injury or discomfort.

Any metallic substance on you can affect the quality of the diagnostic images. As stated above, this may be the cause for discomfort and injury to you if placed within the magnetic field.

Do I need to prepare for my MRI scan?
There is no special preparation for your MRI scan. You may eat normally and take medication as usual, unless your physician has given you other instructions. You may find it easier to relax if you avoid drinking coffee or other caffeinated beverages before the exam.

What can I expect the exam to be like?
The usual exam will last 30 to 60 minutes with image acquisition series lasting approximately 15 minutes each. You will be asked to remove eyeglasses, watch, jewelry, credit cards, dentures, hearing aids and any other metallic object you are carrying. You will most likely be asked to change into a patient gown or scrubs. The technologist will help you lie down on the cushioned table. A device called a coil will be placed around the body part that will be imaged. When positioned comfortably, the technologist will move the table under the magnet and step out of the room into the control booth. You will be in constant contact with the technologist both visually and through an intercom system. As the exam progresses, you will hear loud thumping/knocking noises. These sounds are normal and occur when the machine is acquiring your images. The key to a good exam is to lie as still as possible while the machine is running. Any movement during the exam will cause blurred images and will prolong your examination. When the exam is done, the technologist will come back into the room and assist you off the table.

How long will my MRI scan take?
Although exam time can vary, you can expect your exam length to last roughly between 35 minutes to one hour.

Will I feel anything during the scan?
The MRI scan is completely painless and should cause you no discomfort. Occasionally, a contrast agent may be needed to better visualize the area of interest as specified by your physician. The contrast agent used during an MRI scan typically has no side effects.

How will I know if I need an injection?
In most cases, an MRI does not require any injections. As stated above, some situations require the injection of a contrast agent for better visualization. All contrast agents are FDA approved and are considered safe. Contrast agents are only administered under the supervision of the radiologist working the day of your exam.


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open mri at Tolland Imaging

What is an open MRI?

An open MRI means you will not be placed in a tunnel or tube. It is open on all 4 sides, allowing you to see around you. With our open MRI at Tolland Imaging Center , you can have a friend or family member by your side during the examination

magnetic resonance imaging accrediation at Tolland Imaging