PATIENT GUIDE



Preparing For Your MRI

We want your MRI procedure to be as pleasant and comfortable as possible.
Here's what you need to do or bring:

  • Wear loose-fitting clothing without metal zippers or snaps. Lockers are provided to store personal items.
  • Bring your MRI prescription from your doctor.
  • Arrive 15 minutes ahead of time to complete any necessary paperwork.
  • If you're claustrophobic, you may want to ask your doctor to prescribe medication to help you relax during your MRI.


Please Notify Us

Some conditions may prevent you from having an MRI. If you have any of the following, please let your doctor or OpenSided MRI of Laguna Hills MRI know when you schedule your appointment.

  • Cardiac pacemaker
  • Implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD)
  • Cochlear implants
  • Prosthesis within your body
  • Aneurysm clips (magnetic)
  • Metal filings or fragments in your eyes or body
  • Pregnancy


During Your MRI

If anything worries or bothers you during your MRI just tell us. A two-way microphone intercom system will let you talk to your MRI technologist at any time, if necessary.
Here's what you need to do during your MRI:

  • Your MRI is non-invasive and usually takes about 30 to 50 minutes to complete.
  • Your MRI technologist will help you lie down and get comfortable on the cushioned table, which will automatically move into place for the scanning and imaging.
  • Pillows and blankets are provided for your comfort, as the room needs to be cool in order for the computer system to operate properly.
  • It is important to stay as calm and still as possible, since any movement can blur the images.
  • You will hear thumping or knocking noise during your MRI, which is normal.


What to Expect

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is one of the most accurate and advanced imaging tests available today. Here's what you need to know if your doctor prescribed an MRI for you:

It's a non-invasive and very safe means of getting dozens of pictures focused to the specific area your doctor has requested.

The pictures are very detailed and much clearer than other imaging or X-ray exams, which can help your doctor give you a better, more complete diagnosis.

Your doctor may prescribe intravenous contrast "dye" to be given to you during your MRI. For some MRI exams, the "dye" may provide additional information to assist in making a diagnosis.

The benefits of MRI

MRI procedure is used for all parts of the body and the following are some of the conditions for effective clinical evaluation.

  • Brain disorders
  • Traumatic injuries
  • Eye abnormalities
  • Spine diseases
  • Tumor detection
  • Liver and other abdominal diseases
  • Knee and shoulder injuries
  • Musculoskeletal disorders
  • Facial/Neck abnormalities
  • Infection
  • Cardiac malformations
  • Blood flow and vessel disorders