Home Tests and Procedures MRI Basics What you can expect

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What you can expect

By Mayo Clinic staff

During the test

The MRI machine looks like a tunnel that has both ends open. You lie down

on a movable table that slides into the opening of the tunnel. A technologist

monitors you from another room. You can talk with him or her by

microphone.

The MRI machine creates a strong magnetic field around you, and radio

waves are directed at your body. The procedure is painless. You don't feel

the magnetic field or radio waves, and there are no moving parts around you.

During the MRI scan, the internal part of the magnet produces repetitive

tapping, thumping and other noises. Earplugs or music may be provided to

help block the noise. If you are worried about feeling claustrophobic inside

the MRI machine, talk to your doctor beforehand. He or she may make

arrangements for you to receive a sedative before the scan.

An MRI typically lasts less than an hour. You must hold very still because

movement can blur the resulting images. In some cases, contrast agents are

injected into your veins to enhance the appearance of certain tissues or

blood vessels in the images.

During a functional MRI, you may be asked to perform a number of small

tasks — such as tapping your thumb against your fingers, rubbing a block of

sandpaper or answering simple questions. This helps pinpoint the portions of

your brain that control these actions.

After the test

If you haven't been sedated, you may resume your usual activities

immediately after the scan. Nursing mothers shouldn't breast-feed for 24

hours after an MRI if a contrast material was used.

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See Also

Encephalitis

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Definition

Why it's done

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