Please see the information below to prepare for your MRI exam.
Radiology Diagnostic Center
MRI Philips 1.5 Tesla
MRI GE 3 Tesla
Five Cities Medical Imaging
MRI GE 3 Tesla
Digital Medical Imaging
MRI Open Hitachi Unit
MRI GE 1.5 Tesla
Be prepared when you attend your MRI
• MRI machines are very powerful magnets. You cannot go into the room with any metal that the magnet will attract. Please leave jewelry and valuables at home. You will be required to change at the time of your appointment.
• Most exams average 30 minutes per body part. You will be required to lie still during the actual MRI scanning.
• The magnet is permanently open on both ends. It is well lit and the part of the body being scanned will be placed in the middle of the magnet. We complete feet first exams whenever possible (see gallery below for reference).
• During the exam, you will hear a loud banging noise. You will be given earplugs and headsets to minimize noise and eye coverings are available if needed.
• During your exam, our technologist will be able to see and communicate with you at all times.
• You will have a call button so that you can let the technologist know if you have any problems relaxing during your procedure.
• Some exams require MRI contrast. If contrast is ordered, a technologist will start an IV during your exam and administer contrast halfway through the procedure.
• If you still think you may experience anxiety related to claustrophobia we have options available:
– Schedule in our Open MRI unit in Santa Maria (see gallery below)
– Oral sedation – Contact our office at 805-286-4617 at least one day prior to your appointment to set up sedation. You will be required to arrive 1 hour early, fast with no caffeine or food 4 hours prior to your appointment, and have an adult driver to take you home.
Due to the strong magnetic field, certain conditions may prevent you from
having an MRI. Please alert our staff if the following conditions apply:
•Pacemaker
• Defibrillator
• Wires
• Penile Implant
• Aneurysm clips/coils
• Tissue expander for breast reconstruction
• Deep brain stimulator (for tremors)
• Neurostimulator (for pain control)
• Implanted pumps
• Programmable VP Shunt
• Non-Cardiac Stent
• IVC filter to correct a blood clot condition
• Cochlear implants or Stapes prosthesis
• LINX Reflux Management System
• Any non-removable metal or electronic devices in or on your body
• Any injury by a metallic object that was not removed such as metal fragments, bullet, shrapnel
• Metal in or removed from your eyes that sought medical attention
• Pregnancy
• Claustrophobia
• Other conditions you believe to be relevant
Click on a picture for a closeup view
