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Body MRI Protocols

Performing magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, on the body can help doctors diagnose and treat diseases, disorders and other conditions. MRI works by using a magnetic field to generate pulses of radio waves. The waves, in conjunction with a computer, can produce detailed images of blood vessels, bones, muscles, tissues and organs like the liver, heart, bowel and spleen. If you are undergoing a body MRI procedure, there are several protocols you should be aware of.

  1. Contrast Material

    • Doctors typically require that patients undergoing an MRI swallow a specialized contrast material or receive the material intravenously. According to Radiology Info, contrast material can include a variety of chemicals, but doctors typically utilize the iodine-free gadolinium. Like all contrast materials, the gadolinium gives soft tissues in the body a different level of opacity, making them easier to observe. But Radiology Info says internalizing contrast material can complicate some types of preexisting conditions in patients, such as kidney disease. In such instances, doctors do not use the material.

    Fasting

    • In some cases, a doctor may require a patient to fast for between eight and 12 hours prior to a body MRI examination, according to Radiology Info. Fasting will keep organs like the stomach and intestines clear of waste material, which could potentially disrupt images. Unless a doctor says otherwise, a patient can continue to eat, drink and take medications in accordance with his regular routine.

    Clothing and Accessories

    • Metal can interfere with the magnetic field an MRI unit generates, so a patient undergoing a body MRI examination must remove all jewelry and other metal items. A doctor or nurse may provide the patient with a hospital gown to change into. But if a patient's clothes are loose-fitting and free of metal zippers, buttons and other fasteners, the doctor may allow him to keep his clothes on.

    Into the Tube

    • An MRI unit looks like a large, tubular tunnel, with openings at both ends. At the beginning of the examination, the patient lies on a sliding table and enters the tube. For approximately an hour, the patient must keep perfectly still while the magnetic field surrounds him and the radio waves pulse through him. And while this sounds like it could be painful, the patient feels no sensations whatsoever. The only cause for concern is claustrophobia, as the MRI units are tight, enclosed spaces. A patient can communicate with the doctor conducting the MRI through a microphone inside the unit.

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