Norman Regional Health System

Answers to Your Imaging Questions

Q: I’m afraid of small, enclosed spaces. What options do I have if my doctor orders an MRI?
A:
Talk to your ordering physician about your claustrophobia or problem with MRIs. He or she may be able to prescribe medicine to help.

Q: How should I prepare for my diagnostic imaging test?
A
: You will be given specific instructions prior to your test. Most tests and scans do not require you to fast or refrain from drinking fluids. Depending on the area of your body being tested, jewelry, glasses or hairpins can interfere with results so it’s recommended to remove them. We also suggest wearing comfortable, loose-fitting clothing with no zippers or metal clasps.

Q: I’ve heard the term cardiac calcium scoring. What is it?
A:
Cardiac calcium scoring uses a CT scan to check for calcium buildup on the walls of the coronary arteries. This test can be used to check for early stages of heart disease. Physicians may recommend this test for patients who have risk factors for heart disease — such as family history or diabetes — but who present no clinical symptoms.

Q: When is Imaging Services open?
A:
Visit our location pages to find out when each of our eight locations are open. 
To make your appointment at any of our locations, call us at 405-307-2290.

Q: Where are you located?
A:

  • Norman Regional Hospital: 901 N. Porter Ave., Norman, OK 73070
  • Norman Regional HealthPlex: 3300 W. Tecumseh Road, Suite 100, Norman, OK 73072
  • Norman Regional Moore: 700 S. Telephone Road, Moore, OK 73160
  • Norman Regional Nine: 2000 Ann Branden Blvd., Norman, OK 73071

Q: How fast can I get an appointment?
A:
For most services, next-day or same-day appointments are available.  

Answers to Your CAT Scan Questions

Q: How long will my CT take, and when can I get my results?
A:
The length of the exam depends on a variety of factors, including diagnosis, proper preparation and contrast (if it needs to be administered). A signed radiologist report will be sent to your ordering doctor in 24 to 48 hours. Your physician will then go over these results with you. 

Q: Can my family doctor also receive the results?
A:
Yes. You may request copies of the signed radiologist report be sent to additional doctors as well as the ordering physician. 

Q: Do CT scans hurt?
A:
The CT scan itself will cause you no pain. However, you may have some discomfort from lying on the table in the position needed, during the processes of starting the IV and during contrast administration. If at any time something bothers you, tell the CT staff, and they will help make you as comfortable as possible while still obtaining a successful study for you and your doctor. 

Answers to Your MRI Questions

Q: I have a pacemaker. Can I have an MRI?
A:
Please contact the MRI Department at 405-307-2168 or 405-515-2667 with the make and model of your pacemaker so the staff can clear your device before your appointment. 

Q: How long will my study take?
A:
This all depends on which body part we are looking at, the diagnosis and whether we administer contrast. Most MRI exams take 30 minutes to one hour. 

Q: Can I have an MRI if I am pregnant?
A:
To date, there is no medical documentation to suspect harmful effects to a fetus. This procedure needs to be discussed with your doctor to make sure the benefits will outweigh the possible risk to your baby.

Q: What if I am unsure about possible metal in my body?
A:
A screening X-ray can be taken before your MRI so a radiologist can determine whether it could be detrimental to your health.