Question 1

What is MRI?

Accepted Answer

MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. MRI is considered to be the gold standard of imaging for many cases and continues to evolve. An MRI scanner is a very powerful magnet that is up to 50000 times stronger than the earth's magnetic field. We image hydrogen protons because the body is made up of 90% water. When the body is exposed to a magnetic field in the MRI environment, the hydrogen protons align to the field. With the use of radiofrequency waves, the hydrogen protons are knocked off their axis and as they realign with the magnetic field they give off a signal. The signal is received by the specific coil that is placed over the area to be scanned, and with computer technology it is transformed into a very detailed image. MRI is a safe and painless exam that does not use X-rays or ionizing radiation.

Question 2

What is the difference between MRI and CT?

Accepted Answer

Dogs can't operate MRI, but cats-can.

Okay here's the real difference:  Both modalities are able to image in cross section and compliment each other well, however they each have their strengths and weaknesses. CT is very fast and shows great detail when evaluating lungs, bones, and intra-abdominal organs. MRI can be more specific and sensitive depending on the area being imaged. MRI is very good at looking at the brain, spine, joints, and soft tissues of the body such as muscle, fat, ligaments, tendons, and other organs. While CT uses x-rays, MRI uses a powerful magnet and radiofrequency waves.

p.s. cats aren't really all that great at it.  If we were you, we'd stick with the Image One MRI technologists.

Question 3

What type of scanner do you have?  What does it look like?

Accepted Answer

We have recently gone through several upgrades to our 1.5T GE scanner.  Along with a bunch of new technology to enhance imaging and decrease scan times, we now have a 70cm Flared Bore.  This will provide a more open feeling during your test and allows us to accommodate patients up to 225kgs/500lbs.   We can't wait to show her to you! 
https://static.wixstatic.com/media/5f894e_85efae9243694c51b30fcf7e88cad195~mv2.png

Question 4

Do I need a doctors referral?

Accepted Answer

Yes, a general practitioner, specialist, chiropractor, or nurse practitioner will have to provide us with a requisition for you to have an MRI exam.  This form gives us all the necessary information we need to ensure you get the imaging you need for your specific situation.

Question 5

What if I'm claustrophobic?

Accepted Answer

Claustrophobia is defined as "a fear of being in a confined or enclosed place."  
We strongly believe that by understanding the MRI procedure, many many fears and concerns about the test can be minimized.  Our team of staff will make sure to do all that we can to help you overcome your claustrophobia through keeping you informed every step of the way. Remember, we are here to support you. Should you have any questions, need assistance, or become uncomfortable during your exam, you can contact the technologist at any time. Some remedies to claustrophobia include:
 • Placing a towel over your eyes during the scan
 • Listening to music during the scan
 • Positioning feet first 
 • Having a mirror to see out of the scanner
 • Having a family member or friend come into the exam room with you
 • Taking a mild sedative (prescribed by your doctor) before your appointment. **This will require you to have a driver after your exam. We need to know you're able to get home safely.

Question 6

Can you scan my whole body?

Accepted Answer

When diagnosing specific concerns or symptoms, MRI is most effective when individual body parts are scanned separately. The various types of coils (cameras) used to collect images are designed to view each body part individually. This allows us to zoom in and see the anatomy in detail. It's similar to photography; if you zoom into one person's face you can see all their features including their freckles and wrinkles. If you try to include two or more faces in the picture, you have to zoom out and thus lose the detail of each face.

Question 7

Why do I need to provide my surgical history and tell you of any implanted devices?

Accepted Answer

Because the MRI scanner is a very powerful magnet, it is important to make sure all patients are safe to enter the MRI environment. Knowing a patient's surgical history, and any implants they have will help us ensure that they are safe to go into the scanner. Most implants are safe to go into the scanner; however there are some that cannot. Please try to provide as much detail as possible so we can ensure that you are safe.
Surgically implanted metallic pins, wires, rods, etc. are usually okay to be scanned, as are joint replacements. All dental implants and fillings are also okay. However, certain metallic devices can cause interference with the scan. It is particularly important for us to know if you have a pacemaker, a defibrillator, a muscle stimulator, any other implanted electrical device, a history of heart or brain surgery, brain aneurysm clips, shrapnel or a history of getting metal fragments in your eyes.

Question 8

What if I'm pregnant or breastfeeding?

Accepted Answer

At Image One MRI we do not scan a person who is pregnant. If you think you might be pregnant, you must have a pregnancy test done or wait until your menstrual period before we can perform your exam.
If you are breastfeeding it is safe to have an MRI. However, if you will be receiving a contrast injection we will instruct you to pump and discard breast milk for 24 hours post injection to make sure the contrast has passed from your body.

Question 9

How long will my scan take?

Accepted Answer

MRI exams can range from 20 minutes to 120 minutes depending on what is being examined.

Question 10

Can I eat and drink before?

Accepted Answer

Only if we can eat and drink with you - we're big foodies.

Just kidding!  Unless we give you specific instructions, you can go about your regular daily activity before your MRI exam. Instructions will be given upon booking your appointment.

Question 11

What should I wear for the MRI?

Accepted Answer

Once you are here, we will provide comfortable, metal free clothing (think pajamas not hospital gowns) for you to wear for your exam.  Before you arrive you'll need to remove all jewelry and piercings. Glucose monitors and drug patches will have to be removed as well.

Question 12

When can I get in for my MRI?

Accepted Answer

We will try to call you within a day of receiving your requisition to go over the details of your MRI and to ensure your safety while in the scanner.  Most appointments can be scheduled in about 7-10 days.

Question 13

When will my doctor get my results?

Accepted Answer

Your doctor(s) will receive your results within 2 business days of your MRI.

Question 14

Are there any side effects or health concerns with MRI?

Accepted Answer

To date, there are no known harmful side effects from having an MRI scan. However, some surgical implants could be unsafe in the MRI scanner. We perform a very thorough screening process to make sure that you will be safe.

FAQ's

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