What Happens During a Medical Imaging Examination?

While there are many differences between the various types of diagnostic imaging tests, during most imaging exams, the basic steps in the procedure from start to finish are similar.

1. Referral/Scheduling
2. Reception
3. Education
4. Exam Preparation
5. The Actual Imaging Examination
6. Consultation and Release
7. The Diagnosis

1. Referral/Scheduling:

Note: Some exams may require you to not eat or drink from several hours up to a day before the exam. When the appointment is made make sure you ask what preparation, if any, you need to be aware of.

The examination can be scheduled at a time and place that is convenient. Often times, the imaging center is located close to your doctor's office. Always ask for the address, phone number and directions to the imaging center or department when your appointment is scheduled. Another good measure is to confirm the date and time of your appointment before you leave your doctor's office or with a follow up call before the scheduled date of the exam.

2. Reception:

3. Education:

Depending on the type of imaging exam you will have, your preparation prior to the imaging exam will be different. For instance, you may need to prepare for the examination up to 24 hours in advance by fasting or observing some special diet, or you may be instructed to simply eat and behave normally.

Some radiology departments and imaging centers will ask you to watch a short instructional video program prior to your examination or give you additional material to read. In general, education about your upcoming imaging exam should include facts and discussion about:

• specific type of imaging test that will be run
• what the test will determine or diagnose
• what preparation is necessary
• whether you will need to receive a pharmaceutical contrast solution (liquid)
• approximate duration of exam
• basic instructions to follow during the exam (for example, "relax and lie very still")
• the benefits and potential risks of the specific imaging exam

Some questions you may be asked before having certain diagnostic imaging tests might include:

• "are you pregnant?"
• "are you allergic to iodine or any medication?"
• "have you had any head surgery?"
• "have you ever had a heart surgery?"
• "have you ever had joint surgery or replacement?"
• "do you wear permanent eyeliner?"
• "have you ever worked with metal?"
• "do you have any metal objects implanted in your body (such as an artificial hip replacement or pacemaker)?"

Please discuss any of the above issues with your physician or imaging center staff before your diagnostic examination, especially if the answer in your case is "yes" to any of the questions.

4. Exam Preparation:

For instance, you may be asked to take a special pharmaceutical contrast liquid that helps highlight the structure of your organs or any potential disease or injury.

Or, patient preparation may require that you change into a comfortable, light-weight medical gown to allow imaging free from disturbance or artifacts (image degradation) caused by the fabric, zippers or buttons in your normal clothes.

Immediately prior to your study you may also be asked to remove:

• jewelry or watches
• hairpins, hair clips or wigs
• keys, coins, wallets or credit cards
• eyeglasses
• hearing aid
• removable dental work

Other steps you may be asked to complete in preparation for your imaging exam could include:

• bringing any previous x-rays, CT scans, MR scans or other medical images
• that may be pertinent to your current diagnosis and new imaging test
• wear comfortable, non-restrictive clothing (like a jogging suit)
• wear two piece clothing (top and bottom) instead of a dress or one piece
• jump suit
• bring your insurance card or medical plan information
• avoid drinking coffee or other caffeinated beverages before the exam

5. The actual imaging examination:

• relax and remain calm
• remain as still as possible, unless instructed to move
• pay attention to instructions you are given during the exam (for instance "please hold your breath")
• ask questions if you are not sure what you are being asked to do

In general, the quality of the resulting images is in part dependent on how well you follow instructions and remain calm and still. If you feel anxious or afraid, please inform the technologist or radiologist who is conducting the exam. They are there to help you, are concerned about your well being, and want to achieve the best possible images.

In many ways, an imaging exam is a lot like getting your photograph taken: if you follow the photographer's instructions, you will always get the best pictures.

One of the reasons non-invasive diagnostic imaging is used so widely in medicine is because it is largely painless and does not involve surgery. To see inside the body of a living person without using a scalpel is still an incredible feat, even some 100 years after the discovery of x-rays!

6. Consultation and release:

There is minimal patient recovery for most diagnostic imaging examinations. However, some exams like x-ray angiography may require a slightly longer recovery period. If you have been given a sedative as part of the procedure, you will need to have someone else drive you home.

Prior to release and departure from the imaging center or department, you may have a brief consultation with the technologist or radiologist. This person will explain to you how the imaging exam went and what the next steps may be in your medical care.

The radiologist and technologist
consult about a patient case

7. The Diagnosis:

Updated: September 13, 2007