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Information for Patients: Commonly Used Diagnostic Tests : MRI
Medical Description Why is it done? A n MRI (Magnetic resonance imaging) scan can be used to show organs and tissues in the body. An MRI of the brain can show if there is any structural abnormality of the brain (such as shrinkage or a brain tumor). What will it show? MRI scans can be made of any part of the body. In patients with hypertension they are used to look at the adrenal glands and kidneys vessels. How is it done? The test is done by a technologist in the MRI Lab. You will be asked to lie on a platform that slides into a large tube. The tube houses the magnet and a radiowave source. These are connected to a computer and a display screen. You will need to lie very still while the machine takes pictures. When the machine is turned on, the computer makes detailed images of the body tissues. You will hear thumping, tapping or buzzing noises during the MRI. This is a normal part of the test. Are there any risks? No. Practical Details Where do I go to have the test? The Presbyterian Hospital Building – 3 rd Fl (PH-3), Room 318, located at 622 West 168 th Street. How Do I Prepare for the Test? No preparation needed How long will it take? Approximately 45 minutes How much will it cost? With contrast $1,500.00 Without contrast $1,500.00 How much will I have to pay? If you have Medicare or Medicaid the cost is usually covered in full. If you have other forms of insurance you will need to check with your insurance if the cost is covered.
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