Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI is a form of imaging used by physicians to produce detailed pictures of internal body structures, organs, soft tissue and bone. MRI exams are non-invasive and do not use any radiation. It is a quick and accurate exam that allows for diagnosis of a broad range of conditions and diseases, such as cancer, heart disease, bone and muscular disorders.
Our brand new, state of the art Velocity Oasis Open MRI, delivers high field, high image quality and offers a completely satisfying patient experience. Diagnostic confidence and patient comfort is at the heart of what we do.
Key Features of MRI
- 270 degree wide-angle opening to give you a truly OPEN MRI experience
- Excellent imaging quality to provide a quick and accurate diagnosis for your physician
- Fast scans and motion compensation for a quick and easy exam
- Noise reduction technology for a quieter more relaxing MRI
- An intercom system that allows you to be in touch with the MRI technologist throughout the duration of your exam so that if you need anything, the technologist can be right there
Clinical Capabilities:
- Orthopedic Imaging
- Musculoskeletal Imaging
- Neurological Imaging
- Vascular Imaging
- Body Imaging
The procedure is effective in the clinical evaluation of the following conditions:
- Brain disorders
- Traumatic injuries
- Eye abnormalities
- Spine diseases
- Tumor detection
- Musculoskeletal disorders
- Joint disorders and injuries
- Infection
Frequently Asked Questions about MRI
At Tolland Imaging Center, we offer the modern open MRI technology. Open MRI is a comfortable and relaxed method of obtaining high quality diagnostic images. It is ideal for all patients, particularly for claustrophobic, elderly and larger individuals. The main difference between an Open MRI and a conventional MRI is that an Open MRI has a magnet on the top and bottom of the machine, which allows for an opening on each side. A closed or conventional MRI is a capsule-like design where the magnet surrounds the patient.
At Tolland Imaging Center, we pride ourselves on providing the highest standards for patient safety. Because of the potentially harmful effects associated with some metal objects in a magnetic field, you should check with your physician or our highly experienced MRI technologists if you have had any brain, heart, eye, ear or other surgeries.
Also, if you have had any of the following, please let the technologist know:
- Metal implants
- Surgical staples
- Foreign metal objects in eye, or removed from eye
- If you were/are a sheet metal worker/machinist
- Have shrapnel, bullets or bullet wounds lodged in your body
- Have an Intrauterine device (IUD)
- If you are pregnant
- Tatoos or piercings or other metal implants
You may not have an MRI scan if you have the following:
- Pacemaker
- Neuro-stimulator
- Ferrous intracranial clips
- Implanted drug infusion device
MRI is a very safe procedure. There are no health risks associated with the magnetic field or radio waves produced during your exam. Please be patient with our staff as we proceed down a checklist of questions related to you and your study to further reduce any chance of injury or discomfort.
Any metallic substance on you can affect the quality of the diagnostic images. As stated above, this may be the cause for discomfort and injury to you if placed within the magnetic field.
There is no special preparation for your MRI scan. You may eat normally and take medication as usual, unless your physician has given you other instructions. In some cases, patients may be required to fast before an MRI, especially if the scan involves the abdominal area. Fasting typically involves refraining from eating or drinking for a specific period of time before the procedure. Dress comfortably, wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal zippers or buttons. MRI facilities usually provide gowns, but comfortable attire can help you relax before the procedure. Remove metal accessories before the scan such as jewelry, watches, hair pins, and glasses. Metal can interfere with the MRI’s magnetic field.
The usual exam will last 30 to 60 minutes with image acquisition series lasting approximately 15 minutes each. You will be asked to remove eyeglasses, watch, jewelry, credit cards, dentures, hearing aids and any other metallic object you are carrying. You will most likely be asked to change into a patient gown or scrubs. The technologist will help you lie down on the cushioned table. A device called a coil will be placed around the body part that will be imaged. When positioned comfortably, the technologist will move the table under the magnet and step out of the room into the control booth. You will be in constant contact with the technologist both visually and through an intercom system. As the exam progresses, you will hear loud thumping/knocking noises. These sounds are normal and occur when the machine is acquiring your images. The key to a good exam is to lie as still as possible while the machine is running. Any movement during the exam will cause blurred images and will prolong your examination. When the exam is done, the technologist will come back into the room and assist you off the table.
Although exam time can vary, depending on what type of information is required by your physician, you can expect your exam length to last roughly between 30 minutes to one hour.
The MRI scan is completely painless and should cause you no discomfort. Occasionally, a contrast agent may be needed to better visualize the area of interest as specified by your physician. The contrast agent used during an MRI scan typically has no side effects.
Your doctor will determine when it is appropriate for an MRI exam to be done with contrast. There is a very slight risk of an allergic reaction if contrast is injected. All contrast agents are FDA approved and are considered safe. Contrast agents are only administered under the supervision of the radiologist working the day of your exam.
