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MRI / MRA

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MRI/MRA

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a method of looking inside the body. Instead of X-rays, the MRI scanner uses magnetism and radio waves to produce remarkably clear pictures of your head, spine, or other parts of your body. An MRI scanner consists of a strong magnet with a radio transmitter and receiver. The MRI produces soft-tissue images and is used to distinguish normal, healthy soft tissue from pathologic tissue.

Depending on what information your doctor needs, the MRI scan may require the use of a contrast-agent given intravenously to assist in visualization of certain structures in your body. MRA (Angiograph) refers to MRI scan of the blood vessels. Magnetic resonance angiography is used to generate images of arteries in order to evaluate them for stenosis, occlusions, aneurysms or other abnormalities.

What to Expect

After you have removed all metal objects, the technologist will position you on a special table, and the table will then slide into the scanner. Our Magneton Symphony’s feet-first functionality allows for your head to stay outside the magnet bore during most examinations – with the exception of head or neck scans.You will be able to communicate with the technologist during the scan.

In order to obtain clear images, you will be asked to hold very still and relax. In some cases, you will be asked to hold your breath. Any movement, especially of your head or back (even moving your jaw to talk) during the scan can blur the images and interrupt the procedure. While the machine is taking your images, you will hear rapidly repeating, thumping noises coming from the walls of the scanner. For additional comfort earplugs may be provided. During this time, you should breath quietly and normally but otherwise refrain from any movement, coughing or wiggling. When the thumping noise stops, you must refrain from changing your position or moving about.

The entire exam ordinarily takes between 15-30 minutes to complete depending on the body area being scanned.

Preparation

No special preparation is needed prior to the exam, unless your doctor has given you other instructions. You will be asked to complete a safety screening form and answer questions pertaining to your medical history. Please wear loose clothing without zippers or metallic parts.

If your exam is with contrast, you may be asked to fast for a specific period time. One of our representatives will contact you prior to your appointment to provide detailed instructions.

Be sure to remove all:

  • jewelry
  • watches
  • hairpins
  • glasses
  • wallets
  • and other metallic objects

MRI is a non-invasive and safe test. An MRI works with a strong magnet and radio waves.  You need to tell us if any of the following applies to you or the person that accompanies you into the exam room:

  • Aneurysm clip(s)
  • Cardiac pacemaker
  • Implanted cardioverted defibrillator (ICD)
  • Electronic implant or device
  • Magnetically-activated implant or device
  • Neurostimulation system
  • Spinal cord stimulator
  • Cochlear implant or implanted hearing aid
  • Insulin or infusion pump
  • Implanted drug infusion device
  • Any type of prosthesis or implant
  • Artificial or prosthetic limb
  • Any metallic fragment or foreign body
  • Any external or internal metallic object

Exams Performed

MRI SPECIALTY EXAMS

  • MR BREAST
  • MR PROSTATE (HIFU)
  • MR ENTEROGRAPHY
  • MR UROGRAM
  • MRCP (CHOLANGIOPANCREATOGRAPHY)
  • MRV

MRI EXAMS

  • ABDOMEN
  • UPPER/LOWER EXTREMITIES
  • BREAST
  • CHEST
  • CERVICAL
  • FACE
  • HIP
  • IAC- INTERNAL AUDITORY CANAL
  • MANDIBULAR
  • NECK SOFT TISSUE
  • ORBITS
  • PARANASAL SINUS
  • PELVIS
  • PITUITARY GLAND
  • PROSTATE
  • TMJ- TEMPORAL MANDIBULAR JOINT
  • THORACIC

MRA EXAMS

  • MRA ABDOMINAL AORTA
  • MRA CHEST
  • MRA HEAD
  • MRA LOWER EXTREMITIES
  • MRA NECK
  • MRA PELVIS