MRI FAQ

No preparation is generally needed. Your doctor will inform you of any food or beverage restrictions (but typically that’s not necessary).

Answer all of your initial screening questions honestly, and make sure to remove all metallic items from your body before entering your scan.

Once in the Open MRI scan (instead of the common closed MRI scans, which prompt claustrophobia) your only job will be to relax and lay still.

Yes, in most cases they do, however, we always recommend you verify your coverage and any amounts for co-pays and deductibles you may be responsible for prior to your exam.

Please see our insurance lists at your nearest location for insurance coverage details.

MRIs need to capture images of the body from many different angles.

The computer needs time to shift and reset the imaging in order to gather all of the information needed for your specific target area.

Typical scan times run approximately 35 minutes to 1 hour based on scan type, contrast, ect.

In order to obtain optimum image clarity from your MRI scan, you will need to hold still. MRI technologist will inform you when you can move between scans.

Yes. We encourage family members and loved ones to accompany the patient in the room as long as they pass the screening qualifications. Please contact your local facility for more information.

MRI’s work by creating strong magnetic fields around the body that need to be imaged. Your bodies internal protons will align with the first magnetic field of the MRI machine.

Since the radio frequency pulse pushed your protons against their nature, once the pulse is switched off, your protons will realign with the first magnetic field, exerting energy along the way.

The MRI machine picks up this energy and is able to differentiate the different types of tissues within your body based on how quickly they release energy after the radio frequency pulse is turned off.

Same day appointments, concierge service, and affordable pricing all help propel us above our competition. We specialize in MRI and only do MRI exams.

MRA, or Magnetic Resonance Angiogram, is a type of MRI scan that takes images of blood vessels in the body. MRA scans are often used to evaluate for an aneurysm, blocked arteries and evaluate levels of stenosis. MRA’s can provide information that cannot be obtained by x-ray, ultrasound, or CAT scans.

Open MRIs allow a spacious scan to take place, often alleviating any claustrophobic tendencies patients might experience with a tightly enclosed MRI. Our open MRI machines have open sides, allowing for a clear, unobstructed view of your surroundings. Open MRI machines often are more accommodating for most size individuals.

Closed MRI units are traditionally tunnel-style. This tube environment often causes claustrophobic prone patients distress during their long scan periods. In addition, most closed MRI machines are impossible for larger patients to use.

There have been no biological hazards reported in the use of an MRI machine. Some individuals may experience back and/or joint pain due to lying in one position for the length of the scan, and also a brief experience of dizziness may occur once in an upright position once the scan is complete.

In most cases results are available in 24 hours, or sooner.

MRI’s are not created with any ionizing radiation of any kind. There are no known dangers associated with exposure to the magnetic fields within a MRI scan.

MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, uses a large magnetic field and radio frequency pulses to create images in any plane. MRI’s produce detailed images of organs, soft tissue, tendons, ligaments, the spinal cord, bone, and other internal body structures. The detail between normal and abnormal tissue is clearer on an MRI image than a CT scan. MRI’s can also generate 3D isotrophic imaging of the vessels in your body.

A CT scan, or Computed Axial Tomography, uses x-rays for imaging. CT scans are obtained much quicker than MRI, but provide less detail. CT scans are widely used on Emergency Room Patients due to their speed.

MRI contrast is a rare earth mineral (Gadolinium). Our body already has this mineral, but by injecting more into the blood stream, we are able to differentiate between normal and abnormal tissue much more accurately. The contrast does filter through your body, so it is important that your kidney function is of an acceptable level before administering any contrast to your system.

The contrast we use is extremely safe, however, there are some risks factors which you will be screened for prior to administration.