The MRI exam is safe and painless. The MRI technologist will be talking with you throughout your exam. Feel free to ask questions. The most important thing for you to do is relax and lie still. You shouldn't experience any unusual feelings or pain during your MRI scan.
Some exams require the use of an injected contrast-enhancing agent.
This agent does not contain iodine, and does not require special preparation. You will lie on a special padded table that will move into the Open View MRI for your scan. During your exam, you will hear a series of soft, knocking noises. These sounds are normal and are not harmful in any way. The average exam lasts about 1 hour, although the actual length of your exam will depend upon your physician's requests.