MRI - Magnetic Resonance Imaging.

At Radiology and Imaging we couple our wide-bore MRI scanners, designed for maximum patient comfort, with our Radiologists' expertise to produce the highest quality imaging currently available. Our high-field 1.5 Tesla MRI is perfect for advanced applications such as cardiac disease, vascular disease, stroke, musculoskeletal joint disorders, abdominal/pelvic conditions, brain disorders and Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA - a study of the vessels).

What is MRI?

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is safe, painless, and potentially one of the most accurate, noninvasive procedures available to obtain images of the body. In many cases, a high quality MRI reveals exquisite anatomic detail and eliminates the need for additional diagnostic procedures.

In MRI, a magnet is used in conjunction with radio waves and a sophisticated computer system to generate accurate images of the body without using any radiation.

Preparing for an MRI

Preparing for an MRI or MRA is simple. Patients may eat and take medications as they normally would, unless directed otherwise by a physician.

Please bring any previous imaging study results with you to your appointment that relate to your MRI exam.

Patients should wear loose, comfortable clothing, and may be asked to wear a gown to prevent any magnetic interference with buckles or zippers, glasses or watches.

Because MRI uses a strong magnetic field, please notify your physician or our office prior to your exam if you have a pacemaker, artificial heart valve or any other metal or implanted devise inside your body.

During and After an MRI

A patient will be positioned on a cushioned table that will slide into the MRI machine. A Technologist will monitor the exam at all times and a speaker system keeps the patient connected to the Technologist.

Depending on the type of exam ordered a special coil may be used to image certain areas of the body, or, if necessary, a contrast agent may be injected through an IV, for example during an MRA, a procedure used to see certain blood vessels.

A typical MRI exam takes approximately 30 - 45 minutes.

Once the MRI study is complete, one of Radiology and Imaging's Radiologists who specialize in MRI imaging will interpret your exam and report the findings to the patient's physician. Your primary physician will discuss the results of your MRI with you.

Please contact our office if you have any questions about an MRI exam.