Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a method of looking inside the body. The MRI machine uses magnetism and radio waves to produce detailed pictures inside the body. These MRI images helps doctors diagnose an injury or disease and help practitioners develop a treatment plan. MRI’s can be done on different parts of the body and can be especially useful for looking at the nervous system or soft tissue.

Gadolinium contrast dye (sometimes called MRI contrast media, agents or dyes) are a substance used in MRI scans. Contrast dye is used to enhance and improve the quality of the MRI images. This allows the radiologist to more accurately report any abnormalities inside the body.

The contrast dye is injected into the body intravenously (through a vein) durning the MRI scan and is eliminated from the body through the kidneys. Please be aware that the dye can leave a metal taste in your mouth, but do not be alarmed. That goes away about 2-3 hours after the scan has been completed.

MRI scans are non-invasive and are a safe test. MRI machines use strong magnets and radio waves to produce clear images of the inside of the body.

Pregnant women should not get an MRI scan during their first trimester unless it is absolutely necessary. You also should not receive contrast dye when you are pregnant. If any of these apply to you or your exam support person, please let your medical technician know:

>> Aneurysm Clip(s)

>> Cardiac Pacemaker

>> Implanted Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)

>> Electronic Implant or Device

>> Magnetically-Activated Implant or Device

>> Neurostimulation System

>> Spinal Cord Simulator

>> Cochlear Implant or Implanted Hearing Aid

>> Insulin or Infusion Pump

>> Implanted Drug Infusion Device

>> Any Type of Implant or Prothesis

>> Artificial or Prosthetic Limb

>> Any External or Internal Metal Object

>> Hearing Aid

Please be aware that any metallic substance on or in your body can affect the quality of the scan’s diagnostic images. It can also cause discomfort or possible injury to you when placed in the magnetic field. Be sure to remove any and all metal prior to the scan.

Before an MRI, let your doctor know if you:

>> Have any health problems, such as kidney or liver disease.

>> Recently had surgery.

>> Have any allergies to food or medication. or if you have asthma.

>> Are pregnant or might be pregnant.

No metal is allowed in the MRI room. The magnetic field inside the machine can attract metal. Tell your radiologist, doctor or technician if you have any metal-based devices that might cause problem during the test. These include but are not limited to:

>> Artificial Heart Valves

>> Body Piercings

>> Cochlear Implants

>> Drug Infusion Pumps

>> Fillings, Braces or Other Dental Work

>> Implanted Nerve Stimulator

>> Insulin Pump

>> Any Metal Fragments, Such As a Bullet or Shrapnel

>> Metal Joints or Limbs

Please be aware that any metallic substance on or in your body can affect the quality of the scan’s diagnostic images. It can also cause discomfort or possible injury to you when placed in the magnetic field. Be sure to remove any and all metal prior to the scan. If you are unsure about what can be on your person during the scan, ask your doctor or radiologist technician prior to enter the MRI Room.

On the day of the scan, it is recommended you wear loose clothing that doesn’t have any metal fasteners or snaps. If your clothing contains any metal, you will be provided a gown to wear during the test.

Please remove all of these before entering the MRI Room:

>> Cellphone

>> Coins

>> Dentures

>> Eyeglasses

>> Hearing Aids

>> Keys

>> Underwire Bra

>> Watch, Jewelry or Body Jewelry

>> Wig and Hair Ties/Accessories

If you are claustrophobic or you are nervous about the MRI scan, please let your doctor or technician know. We do have relaxation options available to make the test a comfortable experience.

Prior to the scan beginning, you will receive contrast dye through an IV in your arm or hand. This dye helps the radiologist see more clearly the structure inside your body.

Once you enter the MRI room, you will lie on a table that slides into the MRI machine. Straps may be used to help hold you still during the test. You must lie perfectly still so the MRI machine captures the clearest images possible.

You may hear a loud thumping or tapping sound during the scan. This is completely normal. This is the machine creating energy to take pictures of the inside of your body. If the sound bothers you, you can ask for earplugs to muffle the noise.

You may also feel a twitching sensation during the exam. This is also completely normal. During an MRI scan, your nervous system is stimulated and causes the twitching sensation.

The MRI test should take 20-90 minutes to complete.

Once your MRI scan is complete, you can usually go home and get back to your normal routine. If you had any medication to help you relax, you will stay at Cody Imaging Center until you’re fully awake and alert. You will need someone to drive you home and you can resume your normal routine in the next 4-6 hours.

One of our radiologists will study your examination and give the report to your doctor. Your doctor will then discuss with you those results and explain what they mean in relation to your health. Results cannot be given directly from the radiologist to the patient or family.

Cody Imaging Center works with hundreds of insurance policies. As a service to our patients, Cody Imaging will verify insurance information with you prior to the scan. Cody Imaging also understands that medical bills can be an unexpected expense that can cause financial strain, that is why we offer in-house billing specialists to assist you with any billing or insurance questions you may have.

To pay your bill, login into your patient portal or call us at 307-586-2958 and speak to one of our billing specialists.