MRIs (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
What is MRI?
MRI or Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a way to look inside the body without the use of X-rays. It is completely painless. An MRI can allow your doctor to see certain types of tissue, and provide very important information about the brain, spine, joints and internal organs. An MRI can allow your physician the opportunity for early detection of injuries or disease so that proper treatment may be started as soon as possible.
How does MRI work?
The human body consists of 95% water or hydrogen atoms. Since hydrogen atoms spin randomly, when you undergo an MRI your whole body is placed in a strong magnetic field that is 30,000 times stronger than the earth's magnetic field. This causes the hydrogen atoms to realign and spin in the same direction. Computer generated radio waves are then applied which allows the MRI to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body.
What do I do if I am pregnant, is MRI safe?
We currently only scan pregnant patients only when it is considered medically beneficial. Your referring physician and an MRI Board Certified Radiologist will consult with each other and will sign consent forms deeming the MRI as a medically necessary procedure. Your doctor will then discuss the risks and benefits with you, and you will be asked to sign a consent form at the time of your appointment. If you would prefer to, the Radiologist will be available to discuss your exam and the risks and benefits of the procedure with you at the time of your appointment.
What should I wear to my MRI appointment?
Before your MRI exam, you will fill out a screening form asking about anything that might create a health risk or interfere with the imaging. The screening form will be reviewed by your technologist prior to entering the MR suite.
To ensure your safety during your MRI exam, all patients will be asked to change into MR safe appropriate attire (i.e., a gown or scrub suit) provided by the facility. Your technologist will advise you to remove all metallic objects when changing into the approved garments. This includes hearing aids, hairpins, and all jewelry, including body piercings when possible. Lockers are available to secure your personal items.
Please consult the MRI technologist if you have any questions BEFORE you enter the MR suite.
Can anyone have an MRI?
Because some metals interfere with the function of the MRI equipment, certain patients are not able to have an MRI exam. The following equipment or conditions may create problems with an MRI. Please call with concerns about any of the following metals in your body.
A pacemaker or pacing wires
Metal fragments in one or both eyes
Inner ear implants
Cerebral aneurysm clips
Implanted neurostimulator
Tens unit
Certain metal implants
How long do MRIs take?
An MRI exam usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes. If your doctor orders your MRI exam with contrast, the exam may take longer to complete.
What is contrast?
In some cases, your doctor might order your test with contrast. This is a fluid that is injected into a vein (usually in the arm) or joint. This helps to make certain details on the exam more clear and visible and is routine for certain MRI exams.
What will happen during the MRI exam?
First, you will be asked to lie down on the examination table on your back or stomach. The table will slide smoothly into the opening of the machine, and you will be positioned either head first or feet first, depending on the type of exam. Once the exam begins, it is important that you are as still as possible. You will hear loud “knocking” and “banging” noises, and the hum of the machine. This is all completely normal, you will be given a choice of headphones with music or earplugs to help dampen the sounds.
What if I feel anxious or claustrophobic?
One of the first things we recommend to anyone who thinks they might feel anxious or claustrophobic during an exam is an advanced trip to our facility to actually look at the scanner. We often find that once patients see how wide the opening is and how short the scanner is, their anxiety is eliminated. Remember, MRI scanners have changed dramatically over the last 10 years, and are no longer made with such small, restrictive openings and long “tubes” or “tunnels”.
Our technologists are very skilled at helping you feel relaxed and comfortable during your exam. It often helps to listen to music during your exam. You may have a family member in the room with you if you desire. In rare cases a patient might want to be sedated. We don’t offer sedation on sight; however you can discuss options with your referring provider. The patient will also be required to have a driver if sedated.
Doctor Referrals
Do I have to go where my Dr. refers me?
No, you can choose where you would like to go, regardless of your doctor’s recommendation.
What if another doctor requests my images?
Prior imaging is often used as a comparison to help determine the best plan of action. If you know prior to your appointment that you would like a CD or images shared with another provider, you can let our staff know at your appointment. You or your provider can also call our medical records department and request images or a report anytime after your exam.
Examinations
Who will perform my exam?
A registered technologist who has had extensive training in radiological procedures.
My child is going to have an exam – may I be with them in the room?
One parent is encouraged to be with the child. Please call in advance to discuss options for your child.
Who will interpret my exam?
A radiologist who has pursued specialized training in diagnostic radiology and advanced training in MRI will interpret your examination and provide a written report to your referring physician. All radiologists are Board Certified by the American Board of Radiology.
Appointments
Can you accommodate my busy schedule?
We offer Extended Flexible Hours of Operation Monday-Friday. Please call our center to set-up a time that works for you.
I have an appointment. How can I prepare?
Read about your upcoming MRI, MR Angiography (MRA), CT & CTA Scan or X-ray so you know what to expect. If you have more questions, read the service-specific FAQs or call the center directly.
Exam Results
I had my exam. How do I get results?
Your results are delivered to your referring physician within 24-48 hours. Please give them some time to review the results and get back to you. Most offices prefer to schedule a follow-up appointment at which time the results of your scan will be discussed with you. You can schedule your follow-up appointment for any time after 48 hours. You should ask your physician before having the scan what their specific office protocol is.
Insurance
What insurance plans do you accept?
We accept most insurance plans. Some insurance plans require pre-authorization and/or a referral. We will work with your referring physician to obtain these. We will ask for a copy of your insurance card and any referral form that is required by your insurance company when you arrive for your appointment.
CT Scans (Computed Tomography)
What is a CT Scan?
Computer Axial Tomography (CAT), also known as CT (computerized tomography) is an x-ray technique that uses a special scanner to create cross-sectional images of the body and head. This produces “slices” like the slices in a loaf of bread.
CT’s can image the internal portion of the organs and separate overlapping structures precisely. Unlike standard X-rays which take a picture of the whole structure being examined, CT can image that same structure one cross-section or “slice” at a time. This allows the internal body area being examined to be depicted in much greater detail than standard X-rays. CT is also able to provide clear imaging of both soft tissues, such as the brain, as well as dense tissue like bone.
Because a CT scan uses an ultra-thin, low-dose X-ray beam, radiation exposure is minimized.
How will I prepare for my CT Scan?
Depending on the area of the body being imaged, you may be asked to drink a flavored mixture called contrast that will aid in the evaluation of your stomach and intestines.
Certain types of studies also require an IV contrast material, which will be administered through a vein (usually in your arm), once you are in the exam room.
If your exam requires an IV contrast material to highlight certain parts of your body, you may feel a warm sensation throughout your body and/or a metallic taste in your mouth once the IV is administered.