A head MRI involves lying on a table that slides into a large, tunnel-shaped scanner, sometimes with the use of a contrast dye. Here’s a breakdown of the process:
The MRI Procedure Explained
The procedure generally follows these steps:
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Preparation: You will be asked to lie down on a narrow table.
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Positioning: According to the provided reference, the table then slides into a large, tunnel-shaped scanner. This ensures your head is positioned correctly within the magnetic field.
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Contrast Dye (If Needed): Some MRI exams require a special dye, called contrast material. This is usually administered through an IV line in your hand or forearm during the test. The contrast helps to highlight specific tissues or blood vessels in the brain for better visualization.
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Scanning: The MRI machine uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of your brain. During the scan, you'll need to remain as still as possible to avoid blurring the images. The MRI technician will be able to communicate with you during the process.
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Duration: The entire MRI scan can take anywhere from 30 minutes to an hour, depending on the specific images needed.
Where is a Head MRI Performed?
Head MRI is done in the hospital or a radiology center.
