High Field MRI/MRA


The Imaging Center is proud to offer patients and physicians High-Field MRI.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses magnetisim and radio waves to produce remarkably clear pictures of your head, spine, or other parts of your body. An MRI scanner consists of a strong magnet with a radio transmitter and receiver used to gather information from inside your body.
MRI produces soft-tissue images and is used to distinguish normal, healthy soft tissue from pathologic tissue.

Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) is a technique for imaging vascular anatomy and pathology that does not use ionizing radiation. MRA is performed using magnetic resonance imaging machines. The technical capabilities of MRA make it most suitable for evaluation of medium-to-large size vessels.

Depending on what information your doctor needs, the MR scan may require the use of a contrast-agent given intravenously to assist in visualization of certain structures in your body.

If you feel anxious about your MR exam, please notify a staff member so that we can arrange for medication to allow you to relax during your exam.



Preparing for an MRI/MRA at The Imaging Center



Please wear loose clothing without zippers or metallic parts and do not wear any jewelery.
It is best to arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled appointment time to register, change clothes, if needed, and ask any questions about your exam.

You will be asked to complete an MR safety screening form pertaining to your medical history, which your technologist will review with you prior to your scan.

Before your exam, you will be asked to remove all:

• jewelry
• watches
• hairpins
• glasses
• wallets
• and other metallic objects

The technologist will position you on the MRI table, and the table will then slide into the scanner. The Symphony MRI unit's feet-first functionality allows your head to remain outside the magnet bore during many exams - with the exception of head or neck scans of course.

For clear pictures, you will be asked to hold very still and relax. In some cases, you will be asked to hold your breath. Any movement, especially of your head or back (even moving your jaw to talk) during the scan will seriously blur the pictures

While the machine is taking your pictures, you will hear rapid repeating, thumping noises coming from the walls of the scanner. For additional comfort earplugs are provided and you are welcome to bring along music of your choice (CD/ipod).

This procedss is repeated several times, and the entire scan will typically take around 20 minutes to complete.





Finding Out the Results


Our radiologists will interpret your exam promplty and send a formal report to your physician within 24 hours. Your physician will correlate your exam results with your clinical history to provide you with the most accurate diagnosis and treatment plan.

The Imaging Center's radiologists believe it is in your best interests to provide exam results directly to your personal physician; he/she has the most complete information about your health and can discuss any necessary treatment.