Prior to your MRI scan, you will be asked a series of questions that will determine if you are a candidate for an open MRI exam. You will be asked, for example, if you have:
A pacemaker/defibrillator
Shunts or stents
Certain implants, such as ear implants, penile implant, breast tissue expanders, or a nerve stimulator
Bone growth stimulator
Metal fragments in your eyes
And a number of other metal- or electronics-related questions
Not all items on the list are dangerous, but some are. If you have a pacemaker, even an MRI conditional pacemaker, you will need to talk to your physician before scheduling an appointment. MRI conditional pacemakers require specific monitoring devices during the exam that can only be done at certain facilities. Other concerns about metal or implants will be discussed during the scheduling process. Once you are cleared for internal metals or potentially hazardous objects, you will be instructed to change clothing to remove zippers, snaps, etc. that may interfere with your exam.
For some exams, females will be required to remove a bra if it has the hook closure and/or underwire. Wearing a metal-free sports bra may be your preference on test day. You will be issued a locker to use during the exam, where you will lock personal belongings for safekeeping during the test. Your purse and/or wallet, keys, phone, tablet, etc. will be placed in the locker with your clothing. Your hearing aids must be removed, as well as your watch. Other jewelry will be removed if it could interfere with the image quality. Not all objects interfere, so detailed instructions will be given, always with your safety as the primary concern.