You will need a doctor's prescription to schedule an MRI or CT exam. The Buffalo MRI & CT staff will have some pre-screening questions to ask you before your exam in order to start your chart.

MRI Preparation: There is very little preparation required for your MRI study. You can go about your normal daily routine. In most cases, there are no dietary restrictions. Because you will be in a very strong magnetic field, it is important that you remove all metallic objects, such as zippers, jewelry, hairpins, metal snaps, and buttons. Please bring a comfortable change of clothing without metal. If you prefer, we have clothing that you can change into at the MRI center. If you have previous studies such as X-rays CAT scans (CT) or Ultrasound films, please bring them with you. Our Radiologist will review these exams along with your MRI films, and return them to the proper location.

The technologist will position you on a padded table for the study. All you need to do is relax and lie still. Your study will be complete in 20-45 minutes. A relative or friend is welcome to sit with you during the study. Bring your favorite CD or cassette tape to listen to during the study, or feel free to choose from our collection.

CT Preparation: Preparation for your CT study will be different depending on the type of CT that your doctor is ordering. A Buffalo MRI & CT representative will discuss the preparation need for your specific study. During your CT study, you simply lie still on a moving table as it inches its way through a doughnut-shaped "gantry." The scanning time is very fast and in most cases your study will be complete in 10-15 minutes.

MRI and CT studies are completely painless.