Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI or MR) is one of the safest, most comfortable imaging techniques available. It combines a powerful magnet with an advanced computer system and radio waves to produce accurate, detailed pictures of organs and tissues in order to diagnose a variety of medical conditions.  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 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.

What is MRI?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI as it is referred to, is a patient examination utilizing a magnetic field and radio waves to produce a highly accurate view of the inside of any portion of your body.  It is a painless and extremely safe procedure because no radiation is used.

Aided by a computer, MRI is able to produce an image of bone and soft tissue from many different body angles or planes.  This enables Associated Radiologists, PA's physicians to quickly and precisely diagnose a wide variety of conditions.

What is Open MRI?

An Open MRI produces the same results as a normal MRI, but the machine used in the examination is open on all sides. Associated Radiologists, PA uses an Open MRI Imaging System by Hitachi.  This machine uses a specially designed patient gantry which is much more spacious and comfortable.  No longer do you have to squeeze inside a narrow tunnel to get the high quality MRI pictures your doctor needs.

What are the advantages of MRI?

  • Earlier detection of disease or injury, making early treatment possible.

  • No exposure to X-rays or radioactive substances.

  • It is painless, accurate, quick and safe.  There are no known side effects.

When scheduling an appointment, are there certain conditions I should let you know of?

Please advise the scheduler and technologist if you have any of the following:

  • Have a pacemaker.
  • Have any implanted devices.
  • Are pregnant, or suspect that you may be.
  • Have aneurysm clips.
  • Have had heart or brain surgery.
  • Have any metal fragments in your eyes.
  • Have shrapnel in your body.
  • Suffer from claustrophobia.
  • Weigh 300 lbs. or more.

How do I prepare for the exam?

Go on with your normal activities, eat light meals, and take any prescribed medications as usual.  If possible, avoid wearing cloths that have metal buckles, buttons, or zippers.  Do not use hair spray or eye makeup and please bring your insurance information with you along with any previous X-rays or imaging studies of the area to be examined.

What will the exam be like?

You will be met by your MRI technologist who will be performing your examination.  This technologist has completed a rigorous course of education and training, and works under close supervision of the radiologist to assure the most accurate results from your examinations.

The technologist will position and gently secure you on the imaging table.   It's important that you be secured, because even the slightest movement during the exam can blur the image and result in the need for repeated scans.

When you and your technologist are ready the examination table will be moved into the MRI unit, which is an air-conditioned chamber.  Your technologist will have you in full view at all times and be in constant communication via two-way microphones.  You won't feel a thing, but you may hear the hum of the equipment as the images are being produced.

You may be given a contrast medium to highlight a particular part of your body.  The contrast medium outlines less dense, hollow vessels and organs for visualizations.  This medium is eliminated within a few hours or a day or two depending on the area under examination and the type of contrast medium utilized.

How long will the exam take?

The exam usually takes from 30 to 60 minutes.  Time may vary significantly, depending on the nature of the study and other factors.

What do I do after the exam?

You can resume all of your normal activities.

When will I know the results?

A radiologist will study your films and report the findings to your doctor within 24 hours.  Your doctor will discuss the MRI results with you

 

Ask your doctor or call us for more information on any procedure or exam.
To schedule an exam please call our scheduling line at 732-968-5160