MRI

What is an MRI?

The MRI machine uses a powerful magnet, radio frequency waves and a computer that processes the
images to acquire incredibly detailed images of organs, soft tissue, bone and internal body structures.
MRI’s do not use X-rays or any type of radiation, which distinguishes it from CT or CAT scans and PET scans.
Hope Imaging utilizes a state of the art Philips multi-channel, 1.5 Tesla MRI machine. This new scanner is
capable of scanning some anatomical regions in less than 20 minutes. The MRI exam is one of the safest
and most comfortable diagnostic imaging studies available. Our team of radiologists, technologists
and schedulers are always available to answer your questions and ease any concerns you might
have.

What to Expect When Getting an MRI

After you fill out the appropriate paperwork, a staff member will show you to the changing area to change into scrubs or a gown, and can assist you if necessary. Our changing rooms offer secure lockers, but we encourage patients to leave valuables at home. Once changed, it is time for your scan, and your MRI technologist will then take you into the scanning suite.

The technologist is specially trained and certified by the American Registry of Radiological Technologists to take care of you during your MRI scan. A device called a coil will be placed around the area of your body we are scanning. Once you are comfortable, the technologist will move the table into the MRI scanner. You will be able to speak and hear the MRI technologist over an intercom.

The scan takes from 20-40 minutes depending on the purpose of your scan. There is light and plenty of air within the magnet. The equipment does not touch your body but you will hear buzzing and tapping noises from the machine. These sounds are normal and will last a few minutes. We will supply you with ear plugs and/or headphones. We offer a wide variety of music choices for your listening pleasure during the exam. Some patients also find it comforting to wear prism glasses, or other items to cover your eyes, which can help patients who are feeling claustrophobic. We have all these aids available for you should you need them.

Depending on your situation, you may receive an injection during the procedure. The injection is for what we call “contrast” and allows for greater visibility of some parts of the body. Some patients describe a metallic taste or cool sensation after the injection. This is normal and usually subsides quickly.

MRI Safety Notes

MRI safety is extremely important to us, and should also be important to you. Please alert your technologist and/or radiologist if you:

• Have renal disease, a kidney transplant, diabetes, or gout.
• Have a pacemaker or implantable defibrillator.
• Have aneurysm clips.
• Have other implantable devices such as a heart valve, middle ear prosthesis or implanted neurostimulator.
• Know or suspect that you have metal fragments in or around the eye.

Types of MRI Exams We Perform

At Hope Imaging Center in Vero Beach, FL, we offer a multitude of MRI services to cater to a wide audience. Below are some of our most common MRI examinations.

• Angiogram / MRA
  MRA’s or angiograms are used to examine vascular structures in any area of the body. Vascular efficiency is a critical component to overall human health.
• MRI for the Brain
  An MRI of the brain examines the brain for tumors and developmental anomalies. They are also used to identify vascular abnormalities, such as an aneurysm or to determine if a patient has had a stroke. MRI is also used to look for pituitary gland disease, inner ear issues and chronic disorders like multiple sclerosis disease.
• MRI for the Breast
  A breast MRI is often performed for patients who have had an abnormal mammogram, a strong family history of breast cancer, discovered a palpable mass or have breast implants that interfere with receiving a standard mammogram.
• MRI for the Chest, Abdomen, and Pelvis
  This MRI test can examine the chest wall, liver, biliary tract, kidney, spleen and pancreas. It can also evaluate pelvic organs including the reproductive organs, such as the prostate, testicles, uterus and ovaries. Sometimes this test may also examine pelvic and hip bones.
• MRI for Extremities
  A MRI of the extremities may be used to examine the hands, feet, arms, legs, hips and joints, such as ankles, knees, elbows, wrists and shoulders.
• MRI for the Spine
  An MRI of the spine may be used to examine the spine, spinal cord and disc spaces.