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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

ODC at Hunters Row uses the Hitachi Altaire .7T High Field Performance Open MRI System. The Altaire allows improved image quality and increases patient comfort because of its open design.

Patient entering MRI machine

Frequently Asked Questions

What is MRI?

MRI or Magnetic Resonance Imaging is a way to look inside your body without the use of X-rays. It is completely painless. MRI can allow your doctor to see certain types of tissue and can provide very important information about the brain, spine, joints and internal organs. MRI can allow your physician the opportunity for early detection of disease or injuries so proper treatment may be started as soon as possible.

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How does MRI work?

Your body is composed of atoms. Water or hydrogen atoms make up 95% of the human body. Usually the hydrogen atoms within the body spin at random. When you have an MRI, you are placed in a strong magnetic field that is up to 8,000 times stronger than that of the earth, which causes these atoms to realign and spin all in the same direction. Like CT, MRI acquires images that are a "slice" of anatomy. Using the magnetic fields and radio waves, remarkably detailed cross-sectional images of the body can be obtained. A computer processes these images to produce detailed pictures of the anatomy.

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Can anyone have an MRI?

Because some metals interfere with the function of the MRI equipment, certain patients are not able to have an MRI exam. The following equipment or conditions may create problems with an MRI. Please call with concerns about any of the following metals in your body.

  • A pacemaker or pacing wires
  • Metal fragments in one or both eyes
  • Inner ear implants
  • Cerebral anuerysm clips
  • Implanted neuro stimulator
  • Tens unit
  • Certain metal implants

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How long does it take?

The exam usually takes between 30 and 60 minutes. If your doctor orders your MRI exam with contrast, the exam may take longer to complete.

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What is contrast?

In some cases, your doctor may order your test with contrast. This is a fluid that is injected into a vein (usually in your arm). This helps to make certain details on the exam clearer and is routine for certain MRI exams.

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What will happen during the MRI exam?

You will be asked to lie down on the examination table on your back. The table will slide smoothly into the opening, and you will be positioned either head first or feet first, depending on the type of exam. Once the exam begins, it is important that you are as still as possible. You will hear "knocking" and "banging" noises, and the hum of the machine. This is all normal and you will be able to talk to the technologist during your procedure. You will be able to listen to the radio, or you may bring a favorite CD, or choose one at our facility.

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What should I wear?

Your technologist will ask you to remove anything metallic, such as dentures, hearing aids, jewelry, hairpins or articles of clothing that may contain metal, such as underwire bras. These items, along with your purse, wallet, keys, pagers, cell phones or other personal items will be secured in a locker during your exam. You may be asked to change into scrubs, but if you are wearing sweats or clothing without any sort of metal, you may not be asked to change.

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What if I feel anxious or claustrophobic?

One of the first things we recommend to anyone who thinks they might feel anxious or claustrophobic during an exam is an advanced trip to our facility to actually look at the scanner. We often find that once patients see how wide the opening is and how short the scanner is, their anxiety is eliminated. Remember, MRI scanners have changed dramatically over the last 10 years, and are no longer made with such small, restrictive openings and long "tubes" or "tunnels".

Our technologists are very skilled at helping you feel relaxed and comfortable during your exam. It often helps to listen to music during your exam. You may have a family member in the room with you if you desire. In very rare instances, a patient may require sedation, which must be scheduled ahead.