How the MRI magnet works
Our MRI scanners use magnets between 1.5 Tesla and 3 Tesla — roughly 30,000 to 60,000 times stronger than the Earth's magnetic field. The magnet pulls on iron, steel, and other ferromagnetic materials with enough force to turn small objects into projectiles, which is why metal screening is non-negotiable.
The scan itself is painless. You will hear loud knocking and humming sounds as the gradients switch on and off; we provide ear protection for every patient.
The two-step safety screening
Every patient completes a written MRI safety questionnaire at check-in covering implants, surgeries, occupational metal exposure, and pregnancy. A technologist then reviews your answers with you in person and may ask follow-up questions.
Before you enter Zone IV (the scanner room), you and anyone accompanying you change into metal-free clothing and pass a final handheld metal-detector check. Phones, watches, jewelry, hairpins, and credit cards stay outside.
What we screen for
Implanted medical devices (pacemakers, defibrillators, neurostimulators, cochlear implants, drug-infusion pumps), surgical clips and hardware, foreign metal (especially in the eyes from grinding or welding), tattoos and permanent makeup with iron-based pigment, and pregnancy.
If you have an implant, bring its identification card or the operative report. Most modern devices are MRI Conditional — safe at specific field strengths and conditions — and our radiologist confirms the device-maker's protocol before the scan proceeds.
Children, claustrophobia, and accessibility
Children are imaged with the lowest acoustic-noise protocols available; a parent or guardian can stay in the room after screening. For patients who feel claustrophobic, we offer wide-bore scanners at select centers and can coordinate oral anti-anxiety medication through your provider — see our claustrophobia guide for options.
If you use a wheelchair, walker, oxygen, or other equipment, tell us when you book so we can prepare a transfer plan and confirm any equipment can safely enter Zone IV.
If this applies to you
- Bring implant cards, operative reports, or device manufacturer information to your appointment.
- Wear loose clothing without metal — no zippers, snaps, underwire, or metallic prints — or plan to change into a gown.
- Leave valuables, watches, hairpins, and metal jewelry at home or in your locker.
- Tell us about any past welding, grinding, or shrapnel injuries to the eyes, even decades ago.
- Let us know if you are or might be pregnant so we can review the indication with the radiologist.
Call us before your appointment if…
- You have a pacemaker, defibrillator, neurostimulator, cochlear implant, or drug-infusion pump.
- You had brain-aneurysm surgery, heart-valve surgery, or any surgery in the past six weeks.
- You have metal fragments in your body from an injury or occupational exposure.
- You have severe claustrophobia and want to discuss sedation or a wide-bore scanner.
This page is general patient education and does not replace the medical advice of your physician. It describes how Precise Imaging operates today and is not a substitute for the specific instructions on your appointment confirmation. Always discuss your medical history with the provider who ordered your exam.
Frequently asked questions
Is MRI safe? Does it use radiation?
MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves — no ionizing radiation. For most patients it is one of the safest imaging tests available. The main safety concerns come from metal and certain implanted devices, which is why we screen every patient before entering the scanner room.
What happens if I forget to mention an implant?
The screening process is designed to catch this. Our technologists ask several follow-up questions and use a handheld metal detector before you enter the scan room. If anything is found, we stop and verify compatibility before continuing.
Can I bring my child or partner into the scan room?
Yes, after they complete the same MRI safety screening. Anyone in Zone IV must be metal-free and approved by the technologist.
How loud is the MRI scanner?
Sequences can reach 90–110 decibels — similar to a busy intersection or rock concert. We provide foam earplugs and over-ear hearing protection for every patient, and music or video goggles at many of our centers.
What is a wide-bore or open MRI?
Wide-bore scanners have a 70 cm opening (about 10 cm wider than standard) and are more comfortable for larger patients or anyone who feels enclosed. True open-MRI systems use a different magnet design with no tunnel. Both are available at select Precise Imaging centers.
How long will my MRI take?
Most single-region exams run 30–60 minutes. Multi-region studies (e.g., full spine) can take 60–90 minutes. The technologist will let you know how many sequences are scheduled.
Is MRI safe during pregnancy?
Non-contrast MRI is generally considered safe in pregnancy when the information is clinically necessary. Gadolinium-based contrast is usually avoided unless the benefit clearly outweighs the risk. Always tell us if you are or could be pregnant.
Where can I read the official MRI safety standards?
We follow the American College of Radiology (ACR) Manual on MR Safety. Your technologist can show you the policy on request.