All About MRI
For questions or to schedule an appointment, you or your physician can call 203.276.2602 or fax the order to 203.276.4590. Please note: A referral is required.
What To Know About MRI
Our board-certified radiologists are highly trained in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to deliver accurate, detailed diagnostic information in a patient-focused environment. We have the latest in high-field strength magnets, which are scanners that fully surround the body so that optimal images are obtained. We understand that the thought of having an MRI exam may cause stress and anxiety for some patients. To help ease any concern, we offer a variety of options for a more comfortable experience.
- We are proud to include the option of enhanced MRI experiences at several of our locations. These include the ability to personalize the ambient environment during your exam with different lighting, music, and visual options to reduce any stress or anxiety.
- For information about your results, please access your Patient Portal. Or call the Health Information Management Department at 203.276.7455. Or, fill out the medical record request form, bring your photo ID, and visit the center where your exam was held.
- Schedule your cardiac MRI or breast MRI; for all other types of MRI exams, please call 203.276.2602.
What Is An MRI?
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Personalize Your MRI Experience
If you receive an MRI at our Darien Imaging Center and Stamford Hospital locations, you can choose your music, lighting, and scenery during your exam.
What To Know About Your MRI
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WHAT TO EXPECT
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IMPLANTS & MRI SAFETY
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PREPARING FOR YOUR EXAM
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FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
What To Expect
- During an MRI (which typically takes around 45 minutes), you lie on a table that slides into the opening of the MRI machine. While the scan is in progress, you will hear banging noises that are caused by the changing magnetic fields. The two-way microphone and speakers inside the MRI machine allow you and the technologist to speak to each other during the scan.
- If your MRI was ordered with contrast, you will be receiving the contrast through an IV.
- Please note that lab work is done prior to your appointment if the following applies: history of diabetes, history of hypertension, history of severe hepatic disease, or over the age of 50. Lab values obtained within nine weeks of the scheduled appointment are acceptable.
MRI Safety
- Because an MRI exam relies on a large magnetic field to collect data, it is vital that you remove all metal jewelry, hearing aids, watches, and belongings prior to entering the room.
- Some clothing materials contain metal or metallic thread so you will be instructed to change into MRI-safe clothing ahead of your exam.
- While most modern-day pacemakers and ICD devices are approved for an MRI, if you have one of those devices or a metal implant, implanted drug infusion device, or occupational exposure to metal, you must tell your radiologist ahead of your exam.
- Patients with conditions that prevent them from staying still inside the MRI machine may need to have an MRI with anesthesia. This is also common for children since it is hard for them to stay still. Our care team will work with you to manage expectations.
Preparing For Your Exam
- In most cases, your MRI exam requires no special preparation or restrictions. Any exams requiring you to abstain from eating or drinking (except water which is encouraged) specific instructions will be provided at the time of scheduling. You will be required to change into a gown prior to entering the MRI suite.
- Wear loose, comfortable clothing for your appointment.
- No jewelry or clothing with metal materials will be allowed into the exam room (i.e. zippers, snaps). Please leave them at home.
- You must tell your radiologist if you have a pacemaker, metal implants, aneurysm clips, surgical staples, implanted drug infusion devices, or occupational exposure to metal.
Does insurance cover an MRI?
Please discuss with your physician, as all insurances work differently. Some insurance companies require prior authorization.
How can you schedule this exam?
A physician referral is required, so it is important that you discuss this exam with your physician. You or your physician can call 203.276.2602 for questions or scheduling.
How long will it take to see the results of an exam? Can you obtain copies of MRI images?
A report will be generated and sent to your physician. To obtain your results, please complete the authorization for release form.
Convenient Locations Close To You
1 Hospital Plaza
Stamford, CT 06902
(203) 276-2602
Services include: CT, fluoroscopy, MRI, nuclear medicine, ultrasound, interventional radiology, and X-ray.
32 Strawberry Hill Court, 2nd Fl
Stamford, CT 06902
(203) 276-2602
Services include: bone density, CT, fluoroscopy, mammography, MRI, nuclear medicine, PET, ultrasound, and X-ray.
6 Thorndal Circle, Suite 104
Darien, CT 06820
(203) 276-2602
Services include: bone density, CT, mammography, MRI, ultrasound, and X-ray.