Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive medical test that uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of organs and tissues within the body. Understanding what to wear, and what not to wear, is a necessary part of preparing for this procedure. Strict guidelines regarding clothing and accessories ensure both patient safety and the quality of the diagnostic images.
Essential Safety Rule: Avoiding Metal
The most important rule for an MRI is to avoid bringing any metallic objects into the scanning room due to the machine’s powerful magnet. This magnetic field is always active and poses two primary risks. First, ferromagnetic materials can be violently pulled into the scanner, turning small items into dangerous projectiles that can cause serious injury. Second, all metals, even non-magnetic ones, can absorb the radiofrequency energy used by the MRI, causing them to heat up and potentially leading to burns.
This metal prohibition extends to common clothing items that may contain hidden components. Obvious sources of metal to avoid include zippers, metal snaps, buttons, and belt buckles. Less obvious are underwires in bras, metallic threads woven into athletic wear, and some dyes used in fabrics. These subtle metallic elements can heat up or create image distortions that compromise the quality of the scan, making diagnosis difficult. For example, some antimicrobial athletic clothing contains silver microfibers that can cause thermal burns during the procedure.
Recommended Attire for Comfort and Efficiency
Opting for the right clothing contributes to a successful and comfortable MRI experience. The best choice is loose-fitting, soft clothing made entirely from natural fibers, such as cotton, linen, or bamboo. These materials are non-conductive and are unlikely to interfere with the magnetic field or radiofrequency pulses.
Choosing garments without pockets, elastic waistbands, or drawstrings is advisable, as these areas sometimes conceal small metal pieces. Comfortable clothing allows you to lie still for the duration of the scan, which can last anywhere from 15 to 90 minutes. Remaining motionless is crucial because any movement can blur the images and require the procedure to be repeated.
Common Items That Must Be Removed
Before entering the MRI suite, a wide range of personal items and accessories must be completely removed or left at home.
Accessories and Jewelry
All forms of jewelry, including rings, necklaces, watches, and body piercings, must be taken off. Hair accessories such as bobby pins, metal clips, and hair extensions must also be removed. Glasses, hearing aids, and dentures must be removed as they contain metallic components.
Cosmetics and Patches
Certain cosmetics and personal care products can also pose a problem. Some mascaras, eyeliners, and eyeshadows contain minute iron oxide particles, which can react with the magnetic field to cause image artifacts or mild skin irritation. Transdermal medication patches, such as those for nicotine or pain relief, must be disclosed to the technologist. Many patches contain a thin metallic foil backing that can overheat and cause a skin burn, requiring removal before the scan.
Alternatives: When You Must Wear a Hospital Gown
Even if you arrive wearing metal-free clothing, you may be asked to change into a disposable hospital gown. This is a common safety protocol, especially if the clothing is difficult to verify as entirely metal-free, or if the scan focuses on the chest or abdomen. The gown eliminates doubt regarding hidden metallic threads or fasteners that could cause injury or image distortion.
Hospital staff assist patients with the changing process, and facilities typically provide a secure locker or changing room to store personal belongings, including keys, wallet, and phone. Choosing to wear the provided gown is the simplest way to ensure the highest level of safety and the best possible image quality for your examination.