MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging uses a computer, magnetic fields and radio waves to generate images within the body. It can be used for virtually all anatomy, and allows the radiologist to see the specific area of concern in order to provide a quick and accurate diagnosis for your physician.

MRI does not utilize any form of ionizing radiation. Please wear comfortable clothing, like sweats. Clothing with zippers, metal buttons or snaps cannot be worn. This includes underwire bras as well. If needed, a cotton dressing gown will be available for you to use.

Types of specialized MRI examinations include:

Prostate MRI

A new tool has emerged to provide better detection and assessment of suspected prostate cancer. Known as prostate MRI, this test can help you and your doctor to better understand your risk, and help contribute to more targeted and effective treatment of the disease. For more information, visit IHSMensHealth.com.

MR Angiography

Magnetic resonance angiography, or MRA, is an MRI-based technique to assess blood flow through a vessel. This helps doctors to evaluate them for occlusions, aneurysms, stenosis or other abnormalities. Unlike a traditional angiography test, MRA is not invasive. In some cases, the injection of a contrast agent (dye) is needed to help visualize the blood vessels.

Cardiac MRI

Thanks to faster acquisition techniques, cardiac MRI has evolved to become a viable tool for imaging a beating heart. With the motion of the beating heart no longer a factor, MRI can provide you with detailed information about the type and severity of heart disease to help guide therapeutic decisions. Cardiac MRI can also help to explain results from other imaging tests, such as CT scans and X-rays.

3T And Wide Bore MRI

MRI does not utilize any form of ionizing radiation, so no special preparation is needed. You may eat normally and take your regular medication. Please wear comfortable clothing, like sweats. Clothing with zippers, metal buttons or snaps cannot be worn. This includes underwire bras as well. If needed, a cotton dressing gown will be available for you to use.

At IHS, we offer the full range of MRI equipment, including 3T MRI and high-field short-bore (open) MRI. Our 3T systems provide greater image detail for certain musculoskeletal and body imaging needs, and our high-field short-bore systems are a full 10-12 centimeters larger than the MRI systems offered by the majority of our competitors. This provides excellent image quality while being less confining for the patient, and we are able to accommodate patients of larger sizes and weights.

When preparing for an MRI examination:

Because of the potentially harmful effects associated with all metallic objects in a magnetic field, you should check with your physician or MRI Technologist if you have:

Notify us upon arrival of any special needs or allergies.
Bring insurance card and authorization or worker’s comp information.
Plan to pay required co-pays at the time of service.
Bring a picture ID.
Wear comfortable clothing free of metal.

With some examinations, an injection into a vein is required. The MRI technologist will explain the procedure further if your exam requires this.

MRI