MRI

What is MRI?
MRI is today's imaging "gold standard." MRI combines computer technology, a magnetic field, and radio waves to produce a two-dimensional image of a "slice" of the patient’s anatomy. This process is radiation free, and the radio waves are harmless.

Unlike CT scans and x-ray images, MRI scans produce highly detailed images that are useful in identifying soft tissue pathologies. Another advantage of MRI is that it can produce images in different anatomical planes, enabling study of the anatomy from different angles.

 

Some patients are not MRI candidates. Restrictions include:

• Pacemaker
• Aneurysm clips
• Certain metallic orthopaedic and dental implants, including some stainless steel spinal implants
• Physically too large
• Pregnancy (risks to fetus unknown)

During the Procedure
During testing, the MRI machine makes a significant noise. Patients are often offered earphones to listen to music during the procedure.

The patient is able to communicate with the technician. A companion is allowed to sit near the patient during the procedure for reassurance.

During the test, the patient must remain as still as possible. The length of the test varies from 30 minutes to an hour.

Evaluations

Diagnostics

• CT Scans
• MRI
• X-Rays

 

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