1.What is MRI?         
         2.What are the common types of MRI's?
         3.How do I prepare for an MRI?
         4.What are the Precautions for an MRI/MRA?
         5.What will happen during the procedure?
         6.What do I need to do after the exam?

 What is MRI?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, is a diagnostic procedure used to create clear, cross-sectional pictures of the human body. MRI is a safe, painless and simple diagnostic tool that provides your doctor with detailed pictures of the body without radiation. MRI utilizes computer technology, a magnetic field and radio waves to diagnose injuries , tumors and diseases of the muscles and bones of the body. MR images have provided physicians with unique insight into how various diseases manifest themselves throughout the body.

MRI produces highly detailed images of soft tissue structures near and around bones, blood vessels, organs and the brain. Some common uses are for Spinal and joint problems, Small tears to tendons and ligaments, Sports injuries,Arthritis,Organs of the chest and abdomen.

  Open MRI

Our open MRI environment minimizes patient apprehension and claustrophobia. Highly trained technologists are available throughout the procedure to answer questions and assure patient comfort. High Field Imaging provides the latest in state-of-the-art technology for superior image quality while offering the most pleasant and comfortable patient experience available in the Pittsburgh area.

  Closed MRI

Our high-field MRI offers the best option. In a high-field or “conventional” MRI, patients lie on a table and pass through the center of the magnet. Tests are completed quicker with this MRI. For many conditions neurological and orthopedic in nature, this is the preferred testing method.

  MRA

MRA stands for Magnetic Resonance Angiography. It is a specialized MRI that provides more detailed images of blood vessels in the brain and in the body. Blood vessel disorders such as aneurysms, narrowings or blockages can be detected by using MRA.

  Stand Up (Upright MRI)

High Field Imaging is proud to announce that we are the only facility around with this leading technology. This is the only true Open MRI in the industry. There is nothing directly in front of the patient’s face to cause a “closed-in” feeling. Highly claustrophobic patients who were unable to tolerate other MRI scanners, including some “open” MRI’s will now be able to successfully undergo an MRI exam. Additionally, because this scanner is unusually quiet, patients can sit and watch their favorite television programs on a wall mounted TV.
Patients can be scanned in a multitude of positions, including standing, sitting, flexion, extension, rotation and lateral bending as well as the usual lying down positions. Patients can be scanned in positions that demonstrate their symptoms or pain, providing crucial diagnostic information that is impossible to obtain on a conventional MRI. In fact, the Stand-Up MRI has detected pathologies that have gone undetected on traditional MRI scanners.

How do I prepare for an MRI?

       Eat normally
       Take any medications prescribed by your doctor
       Wear comfortable, loose fitting clothes avoiding zippers, belts or metal buttons
       Bring the prescription or order from your doctor
       Bring your insurance card  information
       If you have prior films pertaining to this study (MRI, CT, X-RAY), it is very important to bring them with you to your exam.
 

What are the Precautions for an MRI/MRA ?

Please let our staff know if you have any of the following things as they may not be compatible with MRI.

• Pacemaker,Defibrillator,Aneurysm clips, Spinal cord stimulator, Metallic Implants, Prosthetic Heart Valves,Stents,Surgical clips or staples,Neurostimulators,Recent Surgery or other procedure

• Tattoos,Pregnant,Medication Patches, Body Piercings,Cochlear implant, Breast tissue expander, Metallic fragments in eyes.

What will happen during the procedure?

The MRI usually takes between 15 and 45 minutes depending on what your doctor has ordered. Some exams take longer, especially if multiple areas are being scanned. The technologist will help you on to a sliding table which will move slowly into the machine. The technologist will then leave the room to begin the exam. Feel comfortable knowing that a speaker system will help you to communicate with your technologist throughout the procedure. Each set of images taken has it's own set of sounds associated with it. You will hear knocking and pinging noises. The technologist will provide you with a pair of ear plugs to reduce the noise level.
Different devices may be used to better enhance certain areas of the body. The device is placed around the area being imaged and acts as a transmitter. An example of this would be a knee coil which is place around your knee.
Sometimes your physician will order an exam with contrast to enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels.
MRI imaging is actually a sequence of images. The technologist will inform you how long each sequence takes before he or she begins. You will be asked to remain still for the duration of the sequence. During the sequence you will hear many loud tapping or knocking sounds. These sound are normal. Ear plugs are available if you find the noise bothersome.

What do I need to do after the exam?

There are no side effects of an MRI. You can resume normal activity immediately after your exam. If a sedative was administered, you must refrain from driving or operating machinery for the remainder of the day.
Your MRI will be carefully interpreted and read by one of our expert radiologists. The radiologist will compare your exam with any previous exams you have made available.
The doctor who ordered your MRI will receive your results. He/she will review those results with you.

Who Needs an Annual Breast MRI.