What happens during the exam?

Plan to spend up to an hour at your appointment. You will be shown to a specially shielded room and asked to lie on the deck of the MRI machine. The room is shielded to prevent the powerful magnet from disturbing outside machinery and metal. Pillows and blankets are available to make you comfortable. The machine makes a soft thumping sound during the test. The technician, who will be seated at a work station looking into the MRI room, will let you know what to do and how the exam is progressing. You can also talk to the technician at any time.