Preparing for Your High-Field 3T MRI Scan
Learn what to expect, what to wear, and how our advanced 3T scanners produce unparalleled detail in a fraction of the time of standard MRI.
A 3T MRI uses a magnet that's roughly twice as powerful as a standard 1.5T system. For you, that means sharper images, shorter scan times, and a more confident diagnosis from your radiologist. Knowing how to prepare makes the appointment faster and more comfortable.
What to wear
Plan for comfort and metal-free clothing. Soft, loose-fitting garments without zippers, snaps, hooks, or metallic threads work best. Most patients are asked to change into a hospital gown, but starting in metal-free clothes saves time during check-in. Leave watches, jewelry, and hairpins at home or in your locker.
Eating, drinking, and medication
For most musculoskeletal, brain, or spine MRIs you can eat, drink, and take your normal medications without restriction. If your scan includes contrast (gadolinium), or if you're having an abdominal MRI or MRCP, your scheduler will give you specific fasting instructions — usually nothing to eat or drink for 4 hours before the appointment. Always continue prescription medications unless your physician advises otherwise.
What to bring
- Photo ID and your insurance card
- The prescription or referral from your provider
- Prior imaging on CD if the scan was done outside our network
- A list of current medications and any known allergies
- The name of the physician who should receive your report
Safety screening
Because of the strong magnetic field, every patient is screened for implants and metal before entering the scan room. Tell our team if you have a pacemaker, cochlear implant, aneurysm clip, spinal cord stimulator, insulin pump, or any history of metal fragments in your eyes. Most modern implants are MRI-conditional, but our technologists need the make and model to confirm safety settings.
What the scan feels like
You'll lie on a padded table that slides into the scanner. The bore is wider than many older systems, and we offer headphones, music, and a panic button so you can pause anytime. The machine makes loud knocking and humming sounds during each sequence — completely normal. Most exams take 20 to 45 minutes; you'll need to stay very still while each sequence runs.
Comfort options at Precise
Every Precise location offers headphones for music or audiobooks, warm blankets, and a clear two-way intercom with the technologist. If enclosed spaces make you uneasy, ask about our Open MRI suites — they use a wider, less confining design while still capturing diagnostic-quality images.
After your scan
Results are typically ready within 24 to 48 hours. Final reports are sent directly to the referring provider and posted to your Patient Portal so you can review them yourself or share them with another physician. If contrast was used, drink plenty of water for the rest of the day to help your body clear it.
Have questions before your appointment? Call us anytime at 800-558-2223 or message us through the Patient Portal.
