Question 1

What is an MRI Scan?

Accepted Answer

Magnetic resonance imaging (or MRI) is a non-invasive medical imaging technique that uses powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to take high-quality pictures of your organs and body.

MRI scanners are large magnets that create strong magnetic fields around the part of the body being imaged. The magnetic field made by an MRI scan is used to create a detailed image of the inside of your body that doctors can use to assess and diagnose your condition. In contrast to X-ray machines or computed tomography (CT scan) machines, MRIs do not use X-rays or ionizing radiation.

Save 60% on your next MRI when you book with Sesame. Connect on Sesame with a real, quality radiologist who can administer the procedure and get you the care you need for one affordable, upfront cost - no insurance required.

Question 2

Do I need to do anything to prepare for my MRI exam?

Accepted Answer

Nope! Unless otherwise instructed by your doctor, you can eat normally and take your usual medications before your MRI exam. You will generally be asked to change into a gown for the procedure and to remove anything that might interfere with the magnetic imaging, such as jewelry, eyeglasses, watches, wigs, dentures, hearing aids, underwire bras, hairpins, cosmetics that contain metal particles, etc. If a gown is not required, be sure not to wear clothing items with metallic buttons, snaps, zippers, underwire,  belts, or buckles.

Question 3

What should I expect during my MRI?

Accepted Answer

An MRI scanner is operated by a radiologic technologist and is used for the imaging of a certain part of the body. You can speak to your technologist during the procedure via a microphone in the machine. If you have a history of claustrophobia, you may be given a sedative drug to relieve anxiety during the procedure.

Once you are in the MRI machine, a strong magnetic field is created around you or the part of the body being scanned. The procedure is completely painless. The protons in your body, or the specific area of your body, will line up in a single direction. Short bursts of radio waves will be directed at your body, or a specific area of your body, that will cause these protons to emit radio signals. These signals are then combined like pixels on a computer screen to create detailed imaging of tissue, bone, and organs inside your body.

In some cases, a contrasting agent may be injected through your veins to enhance visual details in your scan. Gadolinium is the most frequently used contrast agent for MRI scans. Side effects of gadolinium are mild but may produce a chilling effect at the injection site or a “pins and needles” feeling. Sesame offers MRI procedures with and without contrast.

The scan can last anywhere from 15 to 90 minutes, depending on the area of the body being examined, and how many images must be collected. The internal part of the magnet produces noise that can be blocked out with earplugs or music played during the procedure. Connect with doctors on Sesame to determine the MRI procedure that works best for you.

MRI services are completely painless and non-invasive. If you haven't been sedated, you can resume your usual activities immediately after the MRI.

Question 4

What is an fMRI?

Accepted Answer

Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) measures blood flow during brain activity. An fMRI produces images that detail the areas of the brain that are being used for certain functions to evaluate the effects of brain disease or assess damage from injury. An fMRI can detect abnormalities in the brain that other imaging procedures cannot catch.

Like an MRI scan, a functional MRI scan uses powerful magnets to produce a clear image. An fMRI may help in diagnosing such ailments as Alzheimer's disease, multiple sclerosis, epilepsy, brain tumors, and chronic pain. They can also help provide insights into lingering effects from a stroke or brain trauma.

Question 5

Is MRI safe?

Accepted Answer

An MRI does not use radiation, so there is no risk of exposure to ionizing radiation during the MRI process. However, because the MRI machine is a large magnet, it cannot be used on patients who may have metallic objects in their bodies (such as shrapnel, mesh, plates, or sutures). __MRIs may not be recommended for patients who have the following conditions:__
- Pacemakers
- Aneurysm clips
- Some prosthetic devices (like some dental or eye prosthetics)
- Implanted heart defibrillators
- Neurostimulators
- Cochlear implants
- Intrauterine devices

Connect with a real, qualified doctor on Sesame to learn whether an MRI is the appropriate kind of diagnostic imaging for your needs.

Question 6

Can I get an MRI if I'm claustrophobic?

Accepted Answer

Many radiology and imaging centers now have wide-bore/open MRI machines, which are beneficial not only to patients who may suffer from claustrophobia but also for patients who cannot fit into conventional MRI machines.

If you are claustrophobic (have a fear of enclosed spaces), you might be given a drug to help you feel less anxious and possibly a little drowsy. Most people get through the exam without any difficulty.

Question 7

Is MRI an outpatient procedure?

Accepted Answer

Yep! MRI services are completely painless and non-invasive. If you haven't been sedated, you can resume your usual activities immediately after the MRI.

Question 8

Is MRI different from X-rays or CT scans?

Accepted Answer

Yes! While all three are forms of diagnostic imaging - technology that allows doctors to see inside your body to diagnose conditions - they vary significantly in their uses. Here's how.

### X-rays

Anyone who's ever broken a bone, or even just gone to the dentist, has gotten an X-ray. X-rays (or radiography) use ionizing radiation to form clear images of the internal parts of the body. These electromagnetic waves pass through your body. Areas with high levels of calcium (bones and teeth) block the radiation, causing them to appear white on the image. Soft tissues allow the radiation to pass through and appear gray or black on the image. X-rays are the fastest and most accessible imaging services and are often considered the first line of imaging.

X-rays are optimal for examining bones and teeth, but less effective in diagnosing conditions within the body's softer tissue.

### CT Scans

CT scans, also known as computed tomography, may be used to evaluate head trauma, bone fractures, pneumonia, internal bleeding, issues concerning internal organs, tumors, and the development of cancer or its response to treatment. Doctors order CT scans more often because they're less expensive and faster than MRIs while providing high-quality images they need to make a diagnosis. However, because CT scans do use a small dose of ionizing radiation doctors may refer patients who are pregnant or that require a clearer image to get an MRI.

If you're needing any of these services,  Sesame can connect you directly with top-rated providers in  all at affordable cash prices. Browse availability and book an appointment online with Sesame- no insurance needed. It's that simple!

Question 9

How much does MRI cost?

Accepted Answer

MRI prices can vary based on the area of the body being scanned, the length of the scan, and the amount of scanning needed.

Sesame offers direct-to-patient care with no insurance needed, so our doctors can list prices up to 60% lower than what you would pay anywhere else. Our prices start around $400, where insurance companies will charge upwards of $2000 for a visit. Sesame works with clinics directly, so the price listed is what you pay. No hidden fees or surprise bills. Check out the imaging services in  to compare prices and find convenient, and affordable providers near you.

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