3T MRI

Since you will be positioned within a large, very strong magnet, you must remove all loose metal objects. Doing so is important for your safety as well as that of our staff, and for proper functioning of the equipment. You may be asked to change into a gown unless you are wearing clothing that is metal-free. You will need to complete a detailed screening sheet, on which you will be asked whether or not you have any metal or other devices implanted in your body that may interfere with the scan or cause injury to you. If you have any concerns or questions about that aspect of the procedure, please ask the technologist before you enter the room. We also will be happy to answer your questions by telephone at any time before your appointment. Some types of scans require fasting beforehand. You will be instructed if fasting is necessary for your procedure. Patients not receiving sedation should arrive 30 minutes prior to your exam time in order to register. If your procedure has been scheduled with sedation or anesthesia, please arrive 1 hour prior to exam for sedation to be administered at the hospital or radiology office. Do not take prescribed sedation medications until after paperwork has been filled out and you are instructed to do so by the technologist. If you have any questions about your medications, please call the center where you are being scanned and ask to speak with a technologist. All patients receiving sedation must have someone with them to drive them home after the procedure.

Please let us know if you have any of the following:

• Cardiac Pacemaker
• Artificial heart valve prosthesis
• Eye Implants or metal ear implants
• Any metal implants activated electronically, magnetically, or mechanically
• Aneurysm clips
• Copper 7 IUD
• Penile implant
• Shrapnel or non-removed bullet
• Pregnancy
• Claustrophobia
• Any metal puncture(s) or fragment(s) in the eye

Your exam will be reviewed by one of our board-certified radiologists, who will interpret the images and generate a detailed report. This report will be sent to your referring physician within five business days. Once finalized, your results will also be available through our online patient portal for your review and reference. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your results, please contact your referring doctor directly.

During an MRI exam, you will lie on a moveable exam table that will slowly move into the machine. This procedure is non-invasive and there is no pain associated with this exam. Some of the common distractions or discomforts include the loud tapping noises that are often made by the machine or the close proximity to the MRI machine. For patients who are claustrophobic or who become uncomfortable in these situations, they may be prescribed a mild sedative to be taken before the exam.

You also may notice a warm feeling in the area being studied. This is normal but you should not be afraid to communicate to the technologist if it bothers you. A technologist will always be available, monitoring you throughout the exam if any concerns arise.

Tallahassee Diagnostic Imaging inside Radiology Associates

1st Floor  – Please Check-in at TDI Desk to the left of the lobby entrance

1600 Phillips Road

Tallahassee, FL 32308

Free parking.