Many medical diagnostics are made with the use of imaging devices. These electronic machines include MRI, CT Scan, Xray, and Body Scan. They are used to detect issues with the inner workings of our bodies. They allow medical professionals to see things like our bones, ligaments, and organs. Preparing for a diagnostic imaging procedure can be worrying, mostly because of the unknown of the diagnosis. However, the actual procedure itself can also be intimidating if you are unfamiliar with the process. Know what to expect for the least amount of discomfort.
Consult with physician on pros and cons
Diagnostic imaging machines have both pros and cons. The pros are the ability to see the essential organs and other important parts of the body. Early diagnosis often leads to better recovery and survival rates. Also, imaging that leads to a diagnosis can open up medical funding and the ability for assistive medications. The pros of imaging machines are the high levels of radiation that the individual is subject to. In most cases, the short amount of time it takes to complete a 3D mammography tomosynthesis or other type of imaging diagnosis is not permanently harmful to the body. However, the pros and cons should always be discussed with your referring physician.
Know what to expect
Different imaging centers have different protocols and requirements. The specific requirements also depend on the actual imaging test you have having done. For example, 3D mammography tomosynthesis tests may require special clothing or an extended period of time for the testing. When scheduling your appointment, the 3D mammography tomosynthesis, or other imaging department will give you specific instructions, including how long the entire procedure will take.
In most cases, you will not have to do anything special to prepare for your diagnosis imaging test. When you schedule you MRI, you will get detailed instructions about how to prepare. You may need to avoid eating for two or more hours before the test, but usually you will not need to make any special preparation. However, it is important to notify the scheduler if you require any special accommodations.
Request comfort
Although 3D mammography tomosynthesis and other types of imaging machines are not necessarily uncomfortable or painful, it is possible that you will be tested for many hours. Many of the imaging machines require you to lay completely still, which may be difficult for some with chronic pain conditions. Request a cushion for under your knees if it will allows you to lay still. Also request additional blankets if you get cold easily. Some imaging centers also have the ability to listen to headphones to drown out the loud sounds of the machine.
If you have any special conditions that prevent you from lying still comfortably, you will want to notify your physician and the scheduler ahead of time. This allows them to prepare and make special arrangements. For example, people who have difficulty in small, closed spaces may require a relaxer from their physician. For extreme cases of claustrophobia, an open MRI may be necessary. The 3 Tesla MRI can be used as both an open or closed MRI scan. You will need to lie still as the machine takes a series of pictures. Each series will take up to 15 minutes, and you may need to have two to six series before the test is over. Ensure that you are comfortable for all of the upcoming series.
Medical diagnostic imaging tests are very common in the medical world. Approximately 30 million MRI scans are performed in the U.S. each year. The scanning process is painless, but can be uncomfortable for those who find it difficult to stay still for an extended period of time. Go into your diagnostic imaging test prepared and knowing what to expect. Your scheduler will notify you of any special arrangements. If you suffer from claustrophobia, you will want to notify your physicians ahead of time. Request additional items for optimal comfort.
