Orthopedic Hospital of Oklahoma

We understand that though we work with imaging procedures and equipment every day, for a patient, what we do is often unfamiliar and can cause some anxiety. The following information is designed to help you better understand the type of imaging procedure you are having done and to prepare you for the procedure. Please take a few moments to review this information. If you have questions, please don't hesitate to talk with our technicians.


Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the most advanced diagnostic tools available in healthcare. The MRI allows physicians to literally see inside the body without invasive surgery or ionizing radiation. During an MRI, a powerful magnet, low-intensity radio waves, and computer technology are combined to visualize with extreme clarity, the soft tissues, muscles, nerves, and bones of the body.


As the name suggests, the main component of the MRI is the magnet. The magnet causes hydrogen atoms in the body to align so they receive a radio frequency signal from the MRI system. The body sends a radio signal back to the system. The radio frequency your body transmits is then visualized by the computer.


As a rule, there is nothing special you need to do to prepare for an MRI. You should remove any jewelry or other metal objects you are wearing. Our patient dressing areas have facilities to store any personal items you need to remove.

For your convenience, you should wear loose-fitting clothes for the examination. You may be asked to change into one of our hospital gowns.

If you have any of the following, you will not be able to have an MRI examination. Please make sure you tell your doctor if you have:

  • a pacemaker
  • an aneurysm clip in the brain
  • an inner ear implant
  • metal fragments in one or both eyes
  • implanted spinal cord stimulator


A contrast agent is a safe paramagnetic agent which is given intravenously and highlights parts of the body. If a contrast agent is needed in your test, your physician will discuss this with you. If you have ever had an adverse reaction to a contrast agent, you need to discuss this with your doctor.

You should tell your doctor:

  • If you are breastfeeding or if you think you are or might be pregnant.
  • If you have been diagnosed with anemia or other disease that affects the red blood cells.
  • If you have asthma or any other allergic respiratory disease.
  • If you have any questions as to whether or not you should receive a contrast agent.

During the completion of  the MRI scan, you will lie on a table. The table will slide into the tube-like opening in the magnet. A technician in an adjacent room will conduct the test. You will be able to speak with the technician at all times during the test through a special headset device. It is important that you remain very still and relaxed during the test. You may hear knocking sounds during the test. These sounds may range in volume from very soft to quite noticeable. These noises are normal. You may choose to listen to a selection of music through your headphones. Some people report feeling anxious in the rather small space. If you feel this may be a problem for you, you should discuss this with your doctor prior to your exam. The open field MRI should help alleviate this closed-in feeling.



Please remember to bring the prescription you received from your doctor, as well as your insurance information (including any pre-authorizations you may have received). The Orthopedic Hospital of Oklahoma participates in most major insurance plans. We will be pleased to bill your insurance company for you upon request.


Your physician or a member of our medical staff will be happy to answer any questions you may have concerning your test. Please notify us 24 hours in advance, when possible, if you are not able to keep an appointment.