Preparations – Spine MR Scan

During your spine MRI scan performed by SMIL, you will be asked to wear a gown.

Guidelines about eating and drinking before an MRI exam vary with the specific exam. Unless you are told otherwise, you may follow your regular daily routine and take food and medications as usual.

Tell your SMIL radiologist if you have any metal screws, surgical staples or other metal in your body. You will be asked to remove any piercings if possible.

Some MRI examinations may require the patient to receive an injection of contrast material into the bloodstream. The SMIL radiologist or technologist may ask if you have allergies of any kind, such as allergy to iodine or x-ray contrast material, drugs, food, the environment, or asthma. The contrast material most commonly used for an MRI exam is called gadolinium. Because gadolinium does not contain iodine, it can be used safely in patients with contrast allergies.

The SMIL radiologist should also know if you have any serious health problems, or if you have recently had surgery. Some conditions, such as severe kidney disease may prevent you from being given contrast material for an MRI. If there is a history of kidney disease, it may be necessary to perform a blood test to determine whether the kidneys are functioning adequately.

Women should always inform their SMIL radiologist or technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.