MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is a painless, non-invasive exam that can produce images of the entire body without harmful radiation. It is used to facilitate precise diagnosis and treatment as well as assessment prior to surgery or other medical procedures.

While generally extremely safe there are some special considerations. Pregnant women (less than 20 weeks) should not be exposed to MRI unless approved by a physician. In addition, individuals that have worked with metal, such as sheet metal workers, welders or grinders, will require careful screening by the MRI technologist and may require an additional x-ray exam of the eyes prior to their exam. Also, people with metal plates, implants, pacemakers or surgical clips will require careful screening.