An MRI scan can often be short, but it may take longer depending on the number of images required, the part of your body being scanned, and what your technologist is looking for. If your doctor has scheduled you for an MRI, you may have questions about the upcoming scan, how long it would be, and what you can do to ensure the process goes smoothly. Call Manhattan MRI today and talk to a specialist about your imaging test, how much time it takes, and what factors can lengthen or shorten your scan to ensure the highest quality results.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic scan that uses powerful magnetic fields, radio waves, and a computer to capture images of structures inside your body. MRIs produce clear images of soft tissues and help in diagnosing and evaluating conditions involving your brain, nerves, muscles, blood vessels, organs, tendons, and ligaments.
MRI is a valuable diagnostic imaging tool as it provides more detailed pictures of your tissues and joints compared to other types of scans, such as X-rays and CT scans. If you have severe pain in any part of the body, unusual symptoms, or a medical condition, talk to your physician to see if an MRI imaging is the right option for you.
MRI technology captures images of your body by:
An MRI scan can assess a wide variety of conditions, including tumors, joint and spine injuries, vascular disease, and more with precision. It may take some time as it creates a 3D image of the body part being scanned by taking hundreds of images in slices so the radiologist can interpret them, make a diagnosis, and determine potential treatment.
This article discusses how long an MRI takes, what factors may influence the duration, and what you can do to make your imaging test a success.
From start to end, an MRI can take anywhere from 15 to 90 minutes. It also depends on which area of the body is being scanned. The larger the field being scanned, the longer it takes to acquire quality images. Also, if you have a more complex health condition, the scan may take longer.
You should also include the time it takes to fill out the forms after you reach the imaging center or hospital, change clothes, or get up from the table before you can go home. If your MRI requires contrast dye, it will typically last a little longer than MRIs that don’t require it.
An average MRI can last between 30 to 60 minutes, with longer and shorter scan lengths based on the specific body parts that are being examined and the type of technology and software being used.
Some other factors that can determine MRI scan duration include:
You can help shorten the length of your scan by following the technologist’s instructions and staying as still as possible while they click away images. The sooner they obtain high-quality pictures of your body parts, the sooner the MRI exam will be completed.
Most types of MRI scans have different ranges of times to complete your scan. Here is an overview of approximate industry average time frames for common MRI:
Advanced technology has played a critical role in speeding up an MRI and improving the scanning experience for both patients and providers. The total time it takes for the machine to scan your body has been greatly reduced since the MRI was first introduced a few decades ago. This means you will spend less time inside the scanner, and a short time at the imaging center, and get back to your routine activities sooner.
Reduced scanning time is particularly beneficial for people with claustrophobia who feel anxious inside the scanner.
You can ensure successful scanning by following your doctor’s or technologist’s instructions during and when preparing for the scan.
Preparing for the scan is simple. You will be asked to:
Before the scan, you may be asked to complete a screening questionnaire to inform the technologist about any medical condition, allergies, or implants that may affect your scan.
Some scans require extra preparation. In case of an abdominal MRI, you may need to fast for 4 to 8 hours before the scan. You will receive advanced instructions if fasting is required for your procedure. Patients without sedation should arrive 15 minutes before the exam, while patients with sedation should arrive at least an hour earlier for the medications to take effect before the scan. You will be asked to stay till the effects of sedation wear off before you can leave the imaging facility, which may add to the time.
Knowing what happens during the scan helps you better understand what to expect. During the MRI, you will lie on a motorized table that slides into the scanning machine. A coil is placed around the body part being examined that sends and receives radio waves, which allows the machine to take images.
Depending on your symptoms or medical history, you may receive a contrast agent through an intravenous injection. Contrast increases the visibility of the internal structures of the body and enhances the accuracy of the images, which helps physicians make a quick diagnosis. If your MRI is to be done with contrast, it may increase scanning time. Some people also have mild reactions to contrast.
The technologist and the radiology staff will guide you every step of the way and make sure you are comfortable during the scanning process. They may pause or take breaks if you are not feeling well or feel anxious during the test.
Generally, MRI scans do not require recovery time. You are free to leave unless you took a sedative for anxiety and were given contrast and have a reaction. In case of sedation, you will need someone to drive you home.
The radiologist will analyze and interpret your images and send your report to your referring doctor who will confirm a diagnosis or treatment plan.
The amount of time it takes to get your MRI results depends on factors like the hospital or the imaging facility you visit and the seriousness of your condition. Generally, it takes about 1 to 2 weeks to get your results.
However, you may get your results quicker if you are dealing with something that requires urgent attention. The radiologist will send the report to your doctor, who will share the test results with you and recommend the next step for your care or treatment.
An MRI scan is the best way for a physician to learn about your underlying medical condition, make an accurate diagnosis, and plan the best treatment. At Manhattan MRI, you can look forward to a comfortable and convenient experience with our specialists who work with you to capture detailed view of tissues and organs in your body to make the best decisions regarding your health. They will address all your concerns regarding the test and discuss approximately how long each type of MRI takes so you know what to expect and what you can do to obtain the required images.
