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.

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.

We have recently gone through several upgrades to our 1.5T GE scanner. Along with 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 allow us to accommodate patients up to 225kgs/500lbs.

Yes, a general practitioner, specialist, nurse practitioner, or chiropractor (in certain circumstances) 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.

Claustrophobia is defined as "a fear of being in a confined or enclosed place." We strongly believe that by understanding the MRI procedure, 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. We are here to support you and 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.

YES! Image One is now offering Whole Body Imaging. This type of MRI is a powerful imaging tool, scanning the body from head through knees evaluating for any actionable findings, diseases or conditions, and provide a general assessment of structural health.  ​ Whole Body Imaging is for people with a goal of preventative health in mind, those seeking information so they can move toward bettering and maintaining their health and wellness, **If you are experiencing new or concerning symptoms, have sustained an acute injury, or require follow-up imaging for a specific medical condition, a dedicated MRI is recommended.

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.

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.

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

For the majority of our scans, you may go about your regular daily activities before and after your MRI. However, there are a few scans that do require some specific instructions and directions which will be shared with you when we book your appointment.

Once you are here, we will provide comfortable, metal free clothing for you to wear for your exam. Before you arrive you'll need to remove all jewelry and piercings. Glucose monitors and drug patches may have to be removed as well.

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 3-5 days.

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

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.