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MindCORE Neuroimaging Facility
Information For Participants
If you are a participant in a study we are conducting, you will be asked to complete an MRI screening form prior to getting into the MRI scanner. The study personnel will also go over the screening form with you right before your MRI scan.
What to Expect
Before the Scan
- Preparation: Please follow any specific instructions given to you by the research study personnel. Please arrive at the MindCORE Neuroimaging Facility at least 15 minutes before your scan appointment to have enough time to complete any necessary paperwork, including the safety screening form [link]. Directions and parking instructions can be found here [link].
- Safety: MRI uses strong magnets, so it’s important to remove any metal objects (jewelry, watches, etc.) beforehand. You’ll also be asked about any medical implants or devices.
- Clothing: Wear comfortable, metal-free clothing. You may be provided with scrubs depending on the scan.
During the Scan
- Procedure: You will lie down on a padded table that slides into the MRI scanner. The scanner itself is a large tube open at both ends.
- Duration: The scan can take anywhere from 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on the type of imaging required.
- Noise: MRI machines can be noisy, but we will provide you with earplugs or headphones to minimize discomfort.
- Communication: You will be able to communicate with the MRI scanner operator throughout the procedure via an intercom system.
After the Scan
- Recovery: There is typically no recovery time needed after an MRI scan, and you can resume normal activities immediately.
Your Safety and Comfort
- Safety: MRI is considered safe for most people, but please inform us if you have any concerns or conditions that may affect your ability to undergo the scan.
- Comfort: Your comfort is our priority. If you experience any discomfort or anxiety during the scan, please inform the MRI scanner operator immediately.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is an MRI?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to generate high-resolution images inside your body. An MRI scan is different from a CT scan or X-ray in that it doesn’t use radiation to produce images.
Is having an MRI safe?
MRI is considered to be a safe, painless and noninvasive technique. During the procedure you won’t be exposed to any harmful radiation. Since the MRI system uses a strong magnet, there are some important steps we take to keep everyone safe during the session, and we expect your cooperation in following our instructions and procedures.
What is the procedure for an MRI?
The MRI scanner has a large tube with openings at both ends. You will lie down on a movable table that slides into the tube. You will have a plastic helmet placed over your head to take MRI pictures. After the table slides into the machine, a member of the research team will get set up in a neighboring room to take several pictures of your brain, each of which will take a few minutes. MRIs are very sensitive to motion, so you’ll be asked to remain as still as possible during the session in order to maximize the quality of the images.
There will be a microphone and speaker in the machine that allow you to communicate with the research staff. You’ll also be given a squeeze ball so you can alert the researcher at any time that you need their attention.The MRI scanner will make all sorts of loud noises during the procedure. This is how you’ll know when the images are being collected. You will be offered earplugs or headphones to block out the MRI machine’s noises.
When the scan is completed, a member of the research staff will assist you in getting up from the table, and will let you know if there’s anything else you need to do during the visit.
Am I qualified to participate in an MRI study?
Every study has its own rules for who can participate, but there are some important safety questions you’ll need to answer before we would include you. Most of these questions are about any metal that could be in your body, like from an injury or surgery. There are also some conditions that might keep you from being scanned (e.g., if you are pregnant). Your study team may ask specific questions about your age, your health history and other characteristics that are important for their study goals.
How do I prepare before an MRI exam?
Because MRI uses magnetic waves, metal objects may be a safety hazard or affect the MRI results. Before having an MRI, you will be contacted to disclose any metal objects/implants/devices in your body. You should also inform us if you have any health issues or may be pregnant.
During the MRI you will be asked to lay still inside a large tube. Most people don’t feel uncomfortable being in the tube, but you should inform us if you are claustrophobic.
On the day of the MRI scan, you should avoid putting on extra hair products/accessories and glittery makeup. Some cosmetics, such as eye shadow and hair gels, may contain some metallic components that can interact with MRI magnets.
You should come to the MRI session wearing comfortable clothes. Make sure none of the clothes have any metal fibers (this is unusual but some brands of athletic gear and yoga pants use copper and silver filaments) and you should avoid clothes with large metal embellishments (standard zippers and rivets are ok). If you wear a bra, it should be one without an underwire or heavy metal clasp (usually a sports bra or sleep bra is good). Our Facility provides private changing areas and alternate clothing if needed. There is a secure locker for your clothes. It is best, however, to leave valuable items at home.
What should I wear on the day of my scan?
Clothing materials that are recommended:
• Loose-fitting clothing
• Clothes that will keep you warm (it gets a little cold in the scan room, around 65 degrees)
Clothing materials that are NOT recommended:
• Any compression wear or tight-fitting clothing
• Potentially prohibited clothing brands: Athleta, Columbia Omniheat, Duluth Trading Co., Juzo USA, Tommy Cooper
How do I get to the MindCORE Neuroimaging Facility?
What happens when I arrive at the center?
Upon arrival, you will be asked to fill out a detailed screening form so we will know if you have any metal in your body or any other conditions that would prevent us from running a scan with you. If you haven’t already done so, you’ll also be asked to complete a consent form indicating your willingness to participate in a study.
Before the actual scan, you will be asked to check for and remove any personal belongings that may contain metal (such as watches, belts, jewelry, hairpins, wigs, sunglasses, etc.). We may also ask you to remove clothing items with metallic fasteners, hooks, zippers, loose metallic components or metallic threads (such as underwire bras, Lululemon or other brands labelled antimicrobial that use silver technology). The Facility can provide cotton sweats or scrubs for you to change into.
Can I have copies of my MRI pictures?
Some studies may be able to give out images, but this is not always the case. You can ask the study team about their rules.
Can I eat or drink before an MRI?
You can eat as normal before your scan, unless there is a special requirement for the research project. It’s OK to drink before your scan, but it’s best if you don’t drink too much and need a bathroom break during the session (we’ll suggest you use the bathroom right before your session).
Will my whole body enter the MRI machine?
For brain imaging studies you will be only partially in the machine—about half way down your body.
Can hair products and makeup affect MRI?
Some cosmetics contain metals that can interact with MRI magnets. Just to be safe, it’s best if you avoid using products such as hair spray and hair gel, and if you don’t wear heavy makeup or nail polish.
Can I be scanned if I have tattoos?
Though it’s somewhat unusual, some tattoos can contain metals that would interact with MRI magnets. You can get a scan at the MindCORE MRI Facility as long as you don’t have any tattoos from the neck up.
What if I have body piercings?
Any piercings that you have will need to be removed before we bring you into the MRI room.
Can I have an MRI if I have fillings, retainers, or braces on my teeth?
The metal in most fillings is not affected by MRI systems and shouldn’t be a problem. Sometimes, retainers, braces and other dental work can distort MR images, but they aren’t typically a safety risk. Our study teams will let you know if they exclude participants with orthodontic work.