Where will I go for my MRI?

The Imaging Center is located on the third floor of the Orthopedic Hospital of Oklahoma in the CityPlex Towers at 81st and South Lewis in Tulsa. A valet parking representative or member of the Guest Services staff will escort you directly to the Imaging Center.

What happens during the examination?

When it is time for your MRI you will be assisted into the scan room where the imager is located.

You are asked to lie on the bed of the imager. The part of your body that is being studied will be placed inside the short tubular space in the MRI machine. You will need to lie still while the images are being recorded.

Technologists operate the machine from a nearby control room. The technologist can see the entire scan room during the examination.

Do I need to hold my breath?

No, you can breath normally through the MRI examination.

Does an MRI hurt?

No, there is no pain whatsoever produced by the examination. However, simply lying on the bed of the imager can be somewhat uncomfortable for persons with certain musculoskeletal problems or other conditions.

Is there any reason not to have a MRI?

If you have a pacemaker, the device will not work inside the magnetic field. Therefore, if you have a pacemaker or a metal implant, you should not have an MRI exam. If you have metal clips or pins in your body or pieces of metal such as shrapnel, you should not have a MRI.

Some newer surgical implants are made of non-magnetic material and may be permitted if they are not part of the region being scanned. 

Always talk with the MRI technologist and your doctor about any objects that are in place inside your body.

What about dental work?

You can have a MRI with fillings and dental bridgework.

Are there other objects to be concerned about?

Since the MRI examination utilizes a powerful magnet, it is important to eliminate from the examination area any object that would be affected by the magnetic field. Keys, zippers, writing instruments, and metal objects of any kind must be removed before you enter the scan room. 

The MRI technologist will talk with you in advance about the arrangements you need to make.

What is my role during the MRI exam?

First, we want you to know that you are taking advantage of the finest technology medicine has to offer, and that it will benefit you and your doctor in deciding about the healthcare you need. 

Second, we hope you will tell us how we can help you in any way during your visit. We are glad you are here. It is a privilege to serve you and your family. 

We hope you will relax, and be our guest!

What should I wear?

For your convenience, you should wear loose-fitting clothes. You may be asked to change into one of our hospital gowns. You will also need to remove any jewelry or other metal objects you are wearing. Our patient dressing areas have facilities to store any personal items.