MRI
Q. What is an MRI and how does it work?
A. An MRI
is a Magnetic Resonance Image. MRI is a diagnostic tool
which uses magnetic forces radio interference and a sophisticated
computer system to obtain images inside the body. Using your bodies
protons in conjunction with the computer, radio waves and a high
field magnet, physicians are able to see into the human body in
different
levels, layers and dimensions. The physician can distinguish healthy
tissue from diseased tissue. MRI is a non-invasive procedure with
no known side effects.
Q. What is the
difference between an MRI and an X-ray or CT scan?
A. An MRI is different from an x-ray because
it shows multiple views and dimensions of the image taken. A CT
scan is an x-ray procedure that is enhanced by a computer delivering
a 3 dimensional view. The MRI does
not use and x-ray tubes or radiation, instead produces images inside
a strong magnetic field.
Q. Will I feel
pain or discomfort during my MRI?
A. You should experience no pain or discomfort
associated with the MRI procedure itself. However, if for example
you have back pain, the MRI procedure requires you to stay in the
same position for a period of time. Staying still may be difficult
on the patient. During the MRI you won’t feel
a thing associated with the scan. You will experience a loud clanking
and thumping sound – that sound is the machine at work. If
the physician requires an agent known as gadolinium be used to more
clearly evaluate
the part of the body being examined, you will receive the gadolinium
intravenously.
Q. How
Do I Prepare for an MRI?
A. No special
preparation is required for an MRI. Prior to the scan you
will continue with your regular routine. You may be asked to bring
x-rays and or CT images that have been previously acquired. At the
time the appointment is made, the scheduler will pre-screen you
for any counter indications associated with the procedure such as:
weight, claustrophobia, pregnancy, implanted devices, metal in the
body or eyes, and your ability
to lie still during the procedure.
Q. What is an
MRI and how does it work?
A. An MRI
is a Magnetic Resonance Image. MRI is a diagnostic tool
which uses magnetic forces radio interference and a sophisticated
computer system to obtain images inside the body. Using your bodies
protons in conjunction with the computer, radio waves and a high
field magnet, physicians are able to see into the human body in
different
levels, layers and dimensions. The physician can distinguish healthy
tissue from diseased tissue. MRI is a non-invasive procedure with
no known side effects.
Q. What is the
difference between an MRI and an X-ray or CT scan?
A. An MRI is different from an x-ray because
it shows multiple views and dimensions of the image taken. A CT
scan is an x-ray procedure that is enhanced by a computer delivering
a 3 dimensional view. The MRI does
not use and x-ray tubes or radiation, instead produces images inside
a strong magnetic field.
Q. Will I feel
pain or discomfort during my MRI?
A. You should experience no pain or discomfort
associated with the
MRI procedure itself. However, if for example you have back pain,
the
MRI procedure requires you to stay in the same position for a period
of
time. Staying still may be difficult on the patient. During the
MRI you won’t feel a thing associated with the scan. You will
experience a loud clanking
and thumping sound – that sound is the machine at work. If
the physician requires an agent known as gadolinium be used to more
clearly evaluate
the part of the body being examined, you will receive the gadolinium
intravenously.
Q. How
Do I Prepare for an MRI?
A. No special
preparation is required for an MRI. Prior to the scan you
will continue with your regular routine. You may be asked to bring
x-rays and or CT images that have been previously acquired. At the
time the appointment is made, the scheduler will pre-screen you
for any counter indications associated with the procedure such as:
weight, claustrophobia, pregnancy, implanted devices, metal in the
body or eyes, and your
ability to lie still during the procedure.
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