What is MRI? (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
 
     


What does MRI do for you and your medical team?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is one form of imaging modality used by physicians to look inside the human body to obtain clinically useful diagnostic information. Incorporating an advanced technology, MRI produces images of the anatomy without the use of radiation required with other imaging modalities such as x-ray and CT scanning.

MRI combines the physical properties of strong magnetic fields with radio waves to produce computer generated soft tissue images within any plane of the body. This widely used imaging technique can be used as a primary diagnostic tool to provide a quick and accurate diagnosis for your physician. In some situations, this procedure can reduce the need for further diagnostic procedures or invasive procedures such as exploratory surgery that may have associated complications.

MRI is a non-invasive procedure with no known side or after effects. The procedure is painless; in fact, you won't see or feel anything. A faint knocking sound will be heard, which is simply the imaging process in operation.

The benefits of magnetic resonance imaging are many, with new applications continually being developed through on-going research. The procedure is used for all parts of the body and is effective in the clinical evaluation of the following conditions:

  • Brain disorders
  • Traumatic injuries
  • Eye abnormalities
  • Spine diseases
  • Tumor detection
  • Liver and other abdominal diseases
  • Knee and shoulder injuries
  • Musculoskeletal disorders
  • Facial/Neck abnormalities
  • Infection
  • Cardiac malformations
  • Blood flow and vessel disorders

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How does MRI operate, and what should you expect?
MRI images are formed when signals, emitted by body tissue, are processed by software and turned into clinical images. These signals are generated using a safe magnetic field in combination with radio waves of a specific frequency. Different tissue characteristics are revealed through this process and translated into different contrast levels on the image.

A typical procedure averages 30 minutes, or longer depending on the type of information required by your physician. You can help to make your images spectacular by simply relaxing and remaining as still as possible during the exam. In fact, some patients fall asleep during the MRI exam.

During your MRI examination, a technologist will be with you and will be able to see you at all times. For your convenience, an intercom system is built into the MR imager so that if you need anything, the technologist will be right there. We can also provide music through specialized headphones. Listening options include: tapes and CD's that you may bring, local AM/FM radio, or XM Satellite Radio , which offers over 150 channels of digital music.

In certain instances, a contrast agent may be administered to enhance the study. There are no extra precautions if your physician requires this type of study. Consult the physician or technologist if you have any questions.

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What do you have to do to prepare for the MRI?
No special preparation is required prior to the MRI exam. You may eat normally and go about your daily routine. Continue to take any medication prescribed by your doctor unless otherwise directed

Prior to entering the scan room for your exam, you will be asked to leave those items that are not compatible with a magnetic field in a safe place outside the scan room. A list of some of these items is listed below.

  • Coins
  • Jewelry
  • Watches
  • Glasses
  • Credit cards
  • Hearing aides
  • Keys
  • Hair pins
  • Other metal objects

 

You may also be asked to remove make-up and dentures and to wear a hospital gown to avoid magnetic interference from belt buckles and zippers.

Once you are situated on the table, make sure you are comfortable so that it is easy to remain still for the duration of the examination. Breathe normally. Once the examination has begun, you will hear a knocking sound that represents changes in the magnetic field that are a normal part of the imaging process. At the conclusion of the exam, the technologist will assist you out of the scan room.

As mentioned previously, you will be asked to leave items that are incompatible with the magnetic field outside of the scan room. Other items to consider are the presence of implants and similar items. Check with your physician or MRI technologist if you have had any brain, ear, eye or other surgeries or any of the following:

  • Pacemaker
  • Neuro-stimulator (Tens-unit)
  • Metal implants
  • Intrauterine device (IUD), etc.
  • Aneurysm clips
  • Surgical staples
  • Implanted drug infusion device
  • Foreign metal objects in the eye
  • Shrapnel or bullet wounds
  • Permanent eyeliner

If you are pregnant, please notify your physician.

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