What is MRI?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a painless test to view your internal organs using a large powerful magnet, radio waves and a sophisticated computer to produce detailed images of your body.

Why was I sent for this procedure?

MRI is utilized to examine your internal structures. The MRI scan is a very sensitive tool, which generates thin section images of any part of the body including bones, tissues and organs in a relatively short period of time. The MRI’s ability to differentiate between soft tissues makes it the best diagnostic test for many conditions involving the head, spine and skeletal system. The images produced can result in an early, accurate diagnosis of conditions and diseases.

How does it work?

An extremely strong magnet along with radio waves and sophisticated computers capture the signals emitted during an MRI scan and translate them into MRI images. When the magnet is engaged, the nuclei of a patient’s hydrogen atoms align with the scanner’s magnetic field. Pulses of radio waves are sent into the scanner that knocks these nuclei out of their normal position. When the waves stop pulsing the nuclei realign back into proper position. During this realignment the nuclei send out signals. These signals are captured by computers and thus images are formed, which are interpreted by our Board Certified Radiologists.

What will I experience?

MRI is a painless procedure. In the Fonar Stand Up MRI utilized at Tilton Dynamic Imaging, you will be in the only true and total open MRI available today. If you have had or have attempted to have an MRI scan in the past and had difficulty due to claustrophobia, you are not alone. If you are overweight and have had difficulty with a scanner in the past the Fonar Stand Up MRI is for you. Our scanner is so open that you can even watch a 42” plasma screen television during your procedure. In addition, unlike lie down scanners that can only simulate an upright study, the Fonar Stand Up MRI produces images, revealing the cause of your problem as you feel it when it hurts, sitting, bending or standing. You will be asked to remain still as it is important to minimize movement in order to achieve the best imaging available. A coil, which is like an antenna may be used during your exam and placed on or around the body part to be scanned. Most tests last between 20 and 45 minutes.

Are MRI’s dangerous?

Since the MRI exam is non-invasive and uses no radiation it is very safe. There are no known after effects from the magnetic force or radio waves used during your MRI procedure.

Preparing for your procedure

Generally there are no special preparations required. You may follow your usual routine regarding eating, drinking and taking your medications unless instructed differently by your physician or our staff when scheduling your appointment. Certain types of scans require the use of an injected contrast agent. If your doctor ordered this type of scan, our staff members will explain the contrast agent to you and answer your questions. The only unusual preparation for the MRI procedure is that all removable metallic objects must be left outside the scanning room, including removable hearing aids, dentures and other prosthetic devices. You should leave all jewelry and watches at home. Credit cards cannot be brought into the scanner room since the magnetic codes on them can be affected by the magnet. For optimal image quality when performing head scans, all makeup must be removed since it may contain metallic powders, which are magnetic and thus degrade image quality. It is also VERY IMPORTANT to notify the technician if you have a pacemaker, think you may be pregnant or have a medical constraint that could interfere with the procedure. Also, it is VERY IMPORTANT to notify the technician if you are/were a machinist, welder, auto mechanic or work with metal in any capacity. You should let the technician know if you even suspect you have anything metallic within your body such as surgical clips, joint or bone pins, metal plates, un-removed bullets, shrapnel, BB shots, cochlear implants, neuro-stimulators or permanent tattoos. These items may interfere with the procedure. You should wear comfortable clothing with no metal (zippers, etc.) . You may be asked to change into a gown for the exam.

After the test

You may resume your normal activities.