Your doctor has recommended you for an MRI of your arm. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to create detailed image slices (cross sections) of the various parts of your arm: upper arm, elbow, lower arm, wrist, hand, and fingers, as well as the different types of tissue: cartilage, ligaments, tendons or the meniscus (shock absorbers in the joints). MR technology produces good soft-tissue images and allows the physician to evaluate different types of body tissue as well as distinguish normal, healthy tissue from diseased tissue. Our team of expert physicians, nurses and technologists is led by Thomas Learch, MD.
If you are claustrophobic (fearful of small, enclosed areas) or experience pain when lying on your back for more than 30 minutes, your referring physician may prescribe a relaxant or pain medication to help you through the exam. The imaging physicians at Cedars-Sinai will not prescribe such medications for you.
We want to make your waiting time as pleasant as possible. Consider bringing your favorite magazine, book or music player to help you pass the time. You may also bring a CD to listen to during the procedure.
Please wear comfortable clothing.
You must tell the technologist, radiology nurse and/or imaging physician of any allergies you may have and if you are pregnant or are nursing.
You will be asked to complete a questionnaire, which will help determine if an MRI is safe for you. People with various implants (usually metallic) or with metal in their bodies (including some tattoos) may have difficulty with an MRI, which utilizes a strong magnetic field. The imaging physician needs to be informed of any of these potential problems.
You will lay on the scanning table feet first with arms at your side. Coils (special devices to improve image quality) will be placed around your arm or part of your arm.
The scanning table will slide your lower body into the magnet. During the scan you will not feel anything, but will hear intermittent humming, thumping, clicking and knocking sounds. Earplugs will be provided to help mask the noise and allow you to listen to music.
In some cases, the imaging physician requests a contrast agent (dye) to improve the quality of the images. The dye is injected into a vein in the arm, and may cause a cool sensation.
The technologist is always able to see and hear you during the exam.
The exam will take approximately 45 to 60 minutes.
There are no restrictions placed upon you. You may eat or drive as normal.
Your films will be examined by an imaging physician and a report sent to your doctor. Your doctor will review the results with you.
To request copies of your pictures on a PC and MAC compatible CD, or a copy of your report, call (310) 423-8000 and follow the prompts for your selection.
You can be dropped off in front of the South Tower on Gracie Allen Drive (same as Alden Drive).
Parking is available in the South Tower parking lot, also off of Gracie Allen Drive. (If the lot is full, you will be directed to another parking lot.) To get into the parking lot, you need to be heading east on Gracie Allen. You can not turn into the lot if you are westbound.
Parking is partially validated and validation is available in the lobby of the S. Mark Taper Foundation Imaging Center.
