MRI

a. How does MRI work? 

Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, is a diagnostic procedure used to create clear, cross-sectional pictures of the human body.  Unlike other techniques, MRI uses no x-rays or radiation.  Instead it combines the naturally occurring force of a magnetic field with radio waves to produce echoes that are reconstructed on a digital computer. 


b. How do I prepare for my MRI? 

There is no special preparation required prior to your MRI exam.  You may eat and drink normally.  You should continue to take any medications prescribed by your doctor unless otherwise advised. 
There is no special preparation required prior to your MRI exam.  You may eat and drink normally.  You continue to take any medications prescribed by your doctor unless otherwise advised. 
We will provide you with a comfortable garment or gown to wear.  This will eliminate any magnetic interference from belt buckles and zippers.  If you prefer to wear your own clothing during your scan, please remember to wear loose fitting, comfortable clothes with no metal clasps, snaps or trim.  You may be asked to remove make-up, jewelry or dentures before undergoing your study.Due to possible interference of the magnetic field, you will be asked to leave the following items in a secure place outside the scan room:  coins, credit cards, glasses, hair pins, hearing aids, keys, jewelry, and any other metal objects.  We are happy to provide you with a safe and secure locker for your personal belongings.
You should check with your physician or MRI technologist if you have had any brain, ear or eye surgeries.  It is extremely important to notify your doctor if you have any of the following:
Aneurysm clips, foreign metal objects in the eye, implanted drug infusion device, intrauterine Device (IUD) Metal implants of any kind, neuro-stimulator (Tens-unit),  pacemaker, permanent eyeliner, surgical, staples, shrapnel or bullet wounds or if you’re currently Pregnant

A typical MR exam usually lasts anywhere from 15 to 45 minutes depending on how detailed a study was ordered.  When you are ready to begin, the technologist will help you onto the table, position you properly and place a coil around the body part to be imaged.  This coil enhanced image quality.  The technologist will then leave the room, but will be in constant contact with you via an intercom system.  Our scan room is extremely family friendly, which allows your loved one to sit with you while undergoing your MRI.

You will be instructed to breathe normally and to remain still during the scan.  You will hear a slight tapping sound during your study.  This sound is the noise that the radio waves make as they produce the echoes the computer will reconstruct into picture images. 

Depending on the type of study ordered by your physician, you may receive a contrast injection.  This will occur midway through your MRI.  The contrast agent is used to further enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels.  Once the exam is over, your technologist will assist you off the table, out of the scan room and into the dressing area.  MRI has no side effects or ill results.

d. What are the uses for MRI? 

Brain disorders          Traumatic Injuries
Eye Abnormalities     Spine Diseases
Tumor Detection        Liver/abdominal diseases
Knee Injuries             Facial and Neck abnormalities
Shoulder Injuries       Muscoloskeletal disorders
Infection                     Cardiac Malformations
Blood flow & Vessel Disorders

e. When will I receive my MRI results?  Your image will be reviewed by our team of board certified radiologists.  Any previous studies are compared to and read with current exam information.  Our goal is to provide your physician with a signed report within 24 hours.  Your doctor is then able to compare your test results against his or her own clinical findings in order to provide you with a clear picture, diagnosis, and treatment plan.