Preparation Guide

How to Prepare for Your MRI

Proper preparation ensures a safe, comfortable scan and high-quality images. Here's everything you need to know before your MRI appointment.

📋 Quick Preparation Checklist

What to Wear

MRI-safe clothing contains no metal components that could interfere with the magnetic field or cause injury:

Recommended Clothing

What to Avoid

💡 Can't Find MRI-Safe Clothes?

Don't worry — the imaging center will provide a hospital gown if needed. Many patients prefer this option for simplicity. Just plan to arrive a few minutes earlier to change.

Items to Remove Before Scanning

The MRI's magnetic field is extraordinarily powerful — strong enough to pull oxygen tanks across a room. Before entering the scan room, you must remove:

⚠️ Critical Safety Warning

Never bring any metal object into the MRI room. The magnetic field is ALWAYS on, even when the scanner appears inactive. Metal objects can become dangerous projectiles or cause severe burns. Lockers are provided for your belongings.

Food, Drink, and Medications

General MRI Scans

For most MRI scans (brain, spine, joints, extremities):

Abdominal and Pelvic MRI

For scans of the abdomen, liver, pancreas, or pelvis:

MRI with Contrast

If receiving gadolinium contrast:

💡 Breastfeeding and Contrast

The American College of Radiology states it is safe to continue breastfeeding after receiving gadolinium contrast. Less than 0.04% of the dose passes into breast milk. However, if you prefer, you may pump and discard milk for 12-24 hours after the scan.

Preparing for Claustrophobia

If you experience anxiety in enclosed spaces, proactive preparation can make a significant difference:

Before Your Appointment

  1. Tell your doctor — They can prescribe mild sedation (like lorazepam or diazepam) to take before the scan
  2. Ask about open or wide-bore MRI — These may be more comfortable options
  3. Visit the facility in advance — Seeing the machine beforehand can reduce anxiety
  4. Practice relaxation techniques — Deep breathing, visualization, or progressive muscle relaxation
  5. Consider meditation apps — Practice beforehand so you can use techniques during the scan

Day of the Scan

Disclosing Implants and Medical Devices

Before your scan, you'll complete a detailed safety questionnaire. Be thorough and honest — your safety depends on it.

Devices That May Be MRI-Compatible

Many modern implants are designed to be MRI-safe or MRI-conditional (safe under specific conditions). These include:

Devices That May Prevent MRI

⚠️ Bring Documentation

If you have any implanted device, bring the implant card or documentation showing the manufacturer, model number, and MRI compatibility status. This information is essential for the radiology team to determine if your scan can proceed safely.

Special Situations

Pregnancy

MRI does not use radiation and is generally considered safe during pregnancy when medically necessary. However:

Children

Young children may need sedation or general anesthesia to remain still during the scan. If your child is having an MRI:

Kidney Disease

If you have reduced kidney function:

What to Bring