Before Examination
Generally, there is no special preparation required for your MRI. However, you cannot wear any metal jewelry or a watch. If you have body piercing, they have to be removed prior to your appointment.
Occasionally, for some of exams, you will be asked to fast. You will be advised of this at the time of booking by our receptionist. If you suffer with claustrophobia, our technologist is highly trained at helping you through the exam. It is also possible to arrange a pre-exam site visit to spend some time with the technologist and the MRI to become familiar with the process. If it is felt to be necessary, you can ask your referring physician to prescribe anxiety medication that you can take just prior to going into the MRI. In these cases, please advise our team and have someone accompany you to the MRI appointment and drive you home.
During Examination
A health care professional will assist you to lie down on a comfortable padded table. As your exam begins, the table will move into the opening of our MRI system. We will ask you to remain as still as possible during the exam to ensure the best quality images. The body part to be examined will be positioned in the center of a reception antenna. The technologist will remain with you throughout the examination via an intercom, which usually takes 30 to 60 minutes. You will hear a repetitive noise, which is normal. This noise is caused by the rapid reversal of current in the gradient coils. Earplugs will be provided to attenuate this noise and protect you.
If necessary, a contrast agent will be injected into the arm to enhance the diagnostic image.You will be advised prior to the injection if this is required. This substance (Gadolinium) is non-toxic and contains no iodine. Side effects are very rare.
Claustrophobia - the fear of being in a confined or enclosed place
In order to help those patients who suffer from claustrophobia, our staff will keep you informed every step of the way. Remember, we are here to assist you. Should you have any questions, need assistance or become uncomfortable during your exam, use our built-in intercom system in the machine to communicate with the health care attendant.
Some solutions
Many patients find it relaxing to simply place a cool washcloth over their forehead or eyes during the procedure. They can then lie back and relax. Some people may even fall asleep. Many people feel it is comforting to have someone at their side. Some patients may request a mild sedative prior to their examination; however, this should be discussed with your doctor. If you do take a sedative, it should be taken approximately one half hour prior to the examination, and you should have someone drive you to and from your appointment.
After Examination
St-Joseph MRI and Ottawa Valley MRI are excited to announce that we no longer release imaging records via CD and provide imaging records to patients through secure, online access!
Using the patient ID provided by our clinic staff, you can enroll for personal access to your imaging records by visiting www.pocket.health/SJOV. Once enrolled for access, you can view your entire available imaging history from St-Joseph MRI and Ottawa Valley MRI, share imaging instantly with any medical professional or even burn your own CD/USB from home. Visit the link above to request access to your imaging!
If you are looking for more information about online access through PocketHealth, please contact PocketHealth directly at 1-855-381-8522 or by email at help@pocket.health.