What is MRI? 

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a technique that allows doctors to see inside the human body in great detail without using X-rays. MRI uses a powerful magnet, radio waves and a computer system. Because certain atoms in our cells respond, or "resonate," slightly in the presence of magnetic fields, MRI is able to use that response to create an amazingly clear, detailed computer representation of internal organs, muscles, connective tissue, and the central nervous system. Using cross-sectional imaging of the body along multiple planes (like slices of bread), the clarity of these images is far greater than is available with conventional CT scans, X-rays, or even myelograms, allowing your physician to make an earlier and more accurate diagnosis. MRI is noninvasive (except in cases where contrast agents are injected), and doesn’t expose patients to radioactive materials, X-ray, or any form of ionizing radiation. To the best of our knowledge, MRI produces no harmful side effects.  

How safe is MRI? 

MRI is quite safe in the majority of patients. Certain patients may not be able to have an MRI; Those with implanted medical devices such as aneurysm clips in the brain, heart pacemakers and cochlear (inner ear) implants. Also, people with pieces of metal close to or in an important organ (such as the eye) may not be scanned. There are a few additional safety considerations and some exceptions based on individual circumstances.  

Also, certain metal objects that we common have on our persons like watches, credit cards, hair pins, writing pens, etc. may be damaged by the MRI scanner or may be pulled away from our bodies if we go into an MRI room. Also, metal can sometimes cause poor pictures if it is close to the part being scanned. For these reasons, patients are asked to remove these objects before entering the MRI scanner.  

What will I experience during the MRI examination? 

Upon arriving at SV MRI & CT, you will be greeted by a receptionist and asked a series of questions. The scan will then be performed by a radiologic technologist.  Once in the scan room, you will be asked to lie down on a padded table. Prior to going into the magnet you will be offered earplugs to reduce the noise that you hear. During the quite times, you will be able to speak to the technologist by an intercom. Technologists will talk with you frequently during your scan, explaining the procedure each step of the way. When the scanner is operating, you will hear some "thumping" noises and may feel a slight vibration which is normal. It is important to hold still throughout the exam because each set of images have to match the preceding set of images. If you move in between sets of images we may miss certain parts of your anatomy.

Some patients will be given an injection in their arm of a substance that improves certain types of pictures. This substance, called a "contrast agent", is very safe and is unrelated to the iodine used for CAT scans and kidney x-rays. 

How do I obtain results of the scan? 

After you leave, your images are interpreted by a radiologist, a doctor who specializes in reading MRI. Within the next few days, your physician will receive the results of your test. Your physician will then contact you to discuss your results and, if necessary, prescribe treatment. Your physician is the only person authorized to discuss your MRI results with you.

What are the uses and advantages of a MRI scan over other types of scans? 

MRI scanners are good at looking at the non-bony parts or "soft tissues" of the body. In particular, the brain, spinal cord and nerves are seen much more clearly with MRI than with regular x-rays and CAT scans. Also, muscles, ligaments and tendons are seen so well that MRI scans are commonly used to look at any joint following injury. A MRI scanner uses no x-rays or other ionizing radiation.