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What
do doctors learn from an MRI?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a safe, painless way for doctors
to get a clear look at your internal anatomy. In fact, a scan may be
the only way your doctor can get diagnostic information without surgery.
The technology produces sharp computerized images of internal body tissues
that can’t be viewed through x-rays. Doctors can request an MRI
image for your brain, your knee, your spine, or just about any part
of your body that needs diagnosis.
What can an MRI diagnose?
- Aneurysms, stenoses, occlusions, and carotid arteries
in the head and neck
- Diseases of the central nervous system, including spinal
cord deterioration, tumors of the brain, and multiple sclerosis
- Condition of the heart, liver, kidney adrenal glands,
male and female pelvis, and abdominal blood vessels
- Disorders of bones, knees, and joints
- Condition of cartilage, ligaments, bone, muscle, fat
and menisci
- Shoulder disorders, including impingement syndrome
and rotator cuff tears
What
is an “Open” MRI?
Open refers to the equipment, which has a large, non-confining opening.
The patient lies on a table with equipment on one side and overhead.
Having unobstructed space on three sides allows a pleasant, non-claustrophobic
exam. Not being confined in a “tunnel” is much more comfortable
for most patients.
How do I schedule an MRI scan?
Your doctor will decide if an MRI is needed to help diagnose your symptoms.
The doctor’s staff will then notify us and schedule an appointment.
We will verify your health insurance coverage and obtain pre-certification
with your health insurance carrier if necessary. If you do not have
health insurance, payment is expected at the time of service.
Can a friend or family member be in the room with me during the exam?
In most cases, yes. However, please advise our staff if the guest is
pregnant or has anything metallic in the body.
How long will the exam take?
Most exams can be completed in 30 to 60 minutes. More time may be required
if you need to be sedated, if you need be a contrasting liquid, or if
your doctor has ordered more than one scanning test.
How should I prepare for the exam?
There are no special preparations. You should eat normally and follow
the normal dosing of your prescribed medications unless your doctor
gives instructions to do otherwise. Dress in loose, comfortable clothes
with no metal snaps, zippers, etc.
Is it safe?
For most people, the MRI is completely safe. However, in most cases,
pregnant women should not have MRI scans. Please let the staff know
if you are pregnant. MRI does not use any type of radiation, but does
produce a powerful magnetic field. To assure that you will have no adverse
effects from the magnetism, the staff needs to find out if you have
any metal in your body.
Please advise the staff if:
- You have a cardiac pacemaker or artificial heart valve
- You have a metal plate, pin, surgical staples or clips,
or other metallic implant
- You have aneurysm clips
- You have an inner ear implant
- You have an intrauterine device, such as Copper-T IUD
- You have permanent eyeliner (tattoo)
- You have any metal fragments in your eye or in your
body
- You have ever been a metal worker
- You have a biostimulator
Also,
if anyone accompanying you during the exam has any of these conditions,
please bring it to the staff’s attention.
Is it OK for patients with dental fillings or braces to have an MRI?
Yes. Your teeth will not be affected by the exam.
Can I drive home after the MRI?
Most patients do not require sedation and therefore are able to drive
immediately after the exam. If you need a sedative to help you relax
for the exam, please arrange for a friend or relative to drive you home.
How long does it take for my physician to get the results of the examination?
The radiologist will review and interpret your MRI examination upon
completion. Within 24 hours, your physician will have a written report
and copies of the film for visual inspection of the findings.
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