FOR PATIENTS
PREPARING FOR YOUR SCAN
Everything you need to know before your appointment—from preparation to results—so you can feel confident and informed
Before Your Visit
How to Prepare for Your Scan
A few simple steps before your appointment will help ensure a smooth and accurate imaging experience.
GENERAL PREPARATION
You will be asked to change into a gown and remove all metal objects, including jewelry, watches, hairpins, hearing aids, and metal-based cosmetics. A secure locker will be provided for your belongings.
Whole Body MRI
You may eat prior to your exam; avoid fluids for 2–3 hours before your scan.
Coronary (Cardiac) CTA
Fast for 4 hours prior to your exam. Avoid caffeine and nicotine. Iodine-based contrast is administered. Metoprolol may be required (consult your physician). Shave excess chest hair if needed.
Cardiac Calcium Scoring
No preparation required.
Prostate MRI
You may eat prior to your exam; avoid fluids for 2–3 hours before your scan. Patients with a history of prostate cancer or an inconclusive biopsy may not qualify.
Breast MRI
Fast for 4 hours prior to your exam. Gadolinium-based intravenous contrast is administered.
Breast Impant MRI
You may eat prior to your exam; avoid fluids for 2–3 hours before your scan.
CT Lung Cancer Screening
No preparation required.
DEXA Scan (Bone Density)
No preparation required. Patients should avoid calcium supplements for 24 hours prior to the exam.
Comprehensive Blood Work
No preparation required.
Contraindications
MRI Safety & Eligibility
MRI uses strong magnetic fields (no radiation), so certain medical devices or metal in the body may affect your eligibility for a scan. You may not be eligible for an MRI if you have:
- Pacemaker
- Aneurysm clips (if type unknown)
- Metallic foreign body in the eye
- Cochlear implants
- Deep brain stimulator
- Bullets or gunshot pellets (location dependent)
- Any non-MRI compatible metal-based prosthesis
Results & Considerations
Understanding Your Results
Your results will be reviewed with both you and your referring physician to support informed next steps in your care.
- Results are shared with you and your referring physician
- A normal scan does not guarantee the absence of disease or cancer
- A normal scan does not guarantee the absence of disease or cancer
- Findings may appear concerning but ultimately be benign (false positives)
- Additional testing may be required and can cause temporary anxiety
