Whidbey General Hospital » Hospital Services » Departments » Diagnostic Imaging

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Our Philips Intera MRI unit is one of the latest models on the market. Patients can now listen to music while lying comfortable on the table. You are welcome to bring your own CD to listen to (unless you are having a brain MRI)

MRI uses a very strong magnet to acquire images of the body. Safety is a primary concern for all persons exposed to the magnetic field and appropriate screening must be completed before anyone is admitted in this field. Some metal interferes with the exam and other types of metal can be dangerous.

MRI headMRI Head MRI ankleMRI Ankle MRI spineMRI Spine

Patient information and instructions

Please complete a screening form either at your physician’s office or on arrival in Diagnostic Imaging.

  • Screening is done for claustrophobia, surgery history, pacemaker, pregnancy, aneurysm/aortic clips, heart stents, metal fragments in the eyes or skin, defibrillators, neurostimulators, ear implants, insulin pumps, joint replacements, bone pins or rods, any metallic implants and any removable devices such as dentures, and hearing aids.
  • Some of these things may prevent you from having an MRI or you may need a screening x-ray before the MRI. Talk to your physician or call the Diagnostic Imaging department with any questions.
  • Each MRI exam may take 45 to 60 minutes and you must be able to lie still during the exam.
  • Let your physician know if you are claustrophobic prior to your exam. Mild sedation may enable you to complete your exam.
  • If pain might be an issue during the exam, let your physician know prior to the day you are scheduled. Medication may enable you to complete your exam.
  • Dress comfortably, in clothes with no metal items on them or in them (ie: hooks, zippers, snaps, buttons or coins).
  • Please remove watches, wallets, hairpins or barrettes. Gold jewelry and rings are okay, if not in the area of interest.
  • There is a CD player for you use. (Not available for MRI Brain studies) You may bring your own music.
  • You might receive a Magnevist contrast injection during your exam (this is not iodine related).
  • Please bring any outside films that pertain to the area of interest for your MRI.

ARTHROGRAM AND MRI STUDY
An arthrogram is a joint study, where the Radiologist will inject contrast into the joint. You will begin in one of the X-ray rooms for the injection and then move to the MRI area. These exams will show the joint’s function

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