Oakland Medical Centers is pleased to offer MRI services five days a week at its main campus in Pontiac. MRI services are available Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday and Saturday from 7 a.m. until 11 p.m. Same or next-day scheduling is available by calling 248-857-7267.

What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging?
Resonance Imaging, or MRI, is an advanced, state-of-the-art method, which produces very clear pictures, or images of the human body without the use of X-rays.
This technology enables physicians to detect developing diseases or abnormalities
earlier than ever before. MRI uses a powerful, but harmless, magnetic field and radiowaves, like the kind that transmit your favorite FM music. The combination of radiowaves and magnetic field produce detailed images of body structures such as the brain, the spine and other vital organs.

How does the MRI work?
The human body is made up of millions of atoms, which are magnetic. When placed in a magnetic field, these atoms line up with the field, much like a compass points to the North Pole. Radiowaves, tuned to a specific frequency, tip these tiny magnets away from the magnetic field. As they gain energy, they tip. When the radiowaves are turned off, the atoms try to realign with the magnetic field, releasing the energy they gained as very weak radio signals. A powerful antenna picks up these signals and sends them to the computer, which performs millions of calculations to produce an image for diagnosis.

How long is an MRI scan?
The average MR scan takes 5-15 minutes, with a complete exam running 20-60 minutes. During this time, several dozen images may be obtained.

What are the important considerations for an MRI exam?
The MR exam poses no risks to the average patient if appropriate safety guidelines are followed. If you have any specific questions, please ask your doctor.

What can you expect during the MRI scan?
Although MRI is a very advanced medical technique, the MR exam is probably one of the easiest and most comfortable exams you may ever experience. The technologist will simply ask you to lie down on a cushioned table with will automatically move into the magnet after you have been comfortably positioned for scanning. The technologist will leave the magnet room but you will be in constant contact with him or her throughout the entire exam.

When the MRI begins, you will hear a muffled thumping sound which will last for several minutes. Just relax – even take a nap- but try to lie as still as possible since any movement during this time will blur the picture.

Other than sound, you should experience no other sensation during scanning. When scanning is complete, the technologist will return to assist you off the table.

Patient Checklist for MRI
Prior to your exam, please review the following checklist:

• Please bring previous X-rays applicable to the exam. The radiologist may want
   to review them. (For example, if you are having a MRI of the knee, please
  bring any previous X-rays of your knee.)
• You CAN eat and drink prior to the exam.
• You CAN take any medication you may currently be taking. It is not necessary
   to stop taking it prior to the exam. In fact, the exam will be much more
  comfortable if you continue to take your medication.
• You CANNOT have the exam if you have any of the following: cerebral
  aneurysm clips, certain heart valves, cochlear implants, metal filings in the eye
   or a pacemaker.
• You will be asked a series of questions concerning your surgical and
  occupational background. If this history includes metal work (welders,
  grinders, etc.) or metal implants, please be sure to tell the technologist prior to
  your exam. Preliminary X-rays may need to be taken.
• If you think you may be claustrophobic, ask our doctor to prescribe medication prior to the exam. If you do receive medication, please bring someone with you
   that will be able to drive you home because you will not be able to drive
  yourself.