Patient MRI Guide

	Sample MRI Images Detail includes bones, blood vessels, muscles and connective tissue.
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	Shoulder
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	Wrist
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	Lumbar Spine Area
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	Cervical Spine Area
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	Knee
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	Ankle
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	Thoracic Spine Area
	MRI Scanner

What is a MRI?

Your doctor has arranged for you to be examined using one of the most advanced diagnostic methods available: Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).

MRI is a very advanced medical imaging technique which produces clear pictures or images of the human body. It provides an excellent way to diagnose diseases of the brain, spine, chest, skeleton, pelvis and blood Vessels.

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How does a MRI work?

The human body is made up of millions of atoms which are magnetic. When placed in a magnetic field, these atoms line up with the field, much like a compass points to the North Pole. Radio waves, tuned to a specific frequency, tip these tiny magnets away from the magnetic field. As they tip, they gain energy. When the radio waves are turned off, the atoms realign with the magnetic field, releasing the energy they gained as very weak radio signals. A powerful antenna picks up these signals and sends them to a computer that performs millions of calculations to produce an image for diagnosis.

MRI is very sensitive to changes in cartilage and bone structure resulting from injury, disease or aging. The images at right illustrate the power of MRI in helping your doctor diagnose and treat your injury or illness. Clear images such as these often provide information not available through other medical testing and may actually eliminate the need for exploratory surgery.

Our MRI offers maximum patient comfort. The system has a spacious, well-lit opening on both ends. Attractive design and soft colors produce a friendly and relaxing environment.

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What can I expect during the exam?

When you enter the mobile MRI, you will see the MRI scanner. This is a large, circular magnet with a table extending from an opening in the center. A highly trained MRI technologist will help you get situated and comfortable. The technologist will explain the procedure, and answer any questions you may have. The technologist will monitor the exam from the adjacent control room. Throughout the exam, you will be able to communicate with the technologist using a two-way intercom. You may bring a music CD that will be played during your exam.

The technologist will gently slide you into the magnet's opening. The first MRI sequences will then begin. During each sequence, you will hear a tapping noise indicating the imaging process is in progress. You will be asked to remain still during each MRI sequence.

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Will I be exposed to radiation?

Radiation is not used during a MRI exam. MRI relies on radio frequency. A MRI exam is painless with no side effects.

How long will the exam take?

Depending on how many images are to be generated, a MRI exam generally takes 30 minutes.

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How do I prepare for the exam?

In most cases, no special preparation is needed for your MRI exam. You may go about your daily routine, eating, drinking and taking any medications as you normally would.

Due to the magnetic power of the MRI, it is important that no metal of any kind be permitted in the exam room. It is recommended that you wear clothing without metal zippers, snaps or buttons.

Because some patients may have metal inside their bodies, please inform your technologist if you have:

• a cardiac pacemaker, artificial heart valve or aneurysm clips
• any type of metal plate, pin or metallic implant
• an Intrauterine device, such as a Copper-7 IUD
• any metal fragments in your body (from a previous gunshot wound or from exposure to metal fragments on the job).

In some cases, patients with any of the above will be rescheduled for an alternate diagnostic imaging exam.

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How Will I know the results?

Immediately following your exam, your referring physician will be given a copy of your MRI images on a CD ROM. Next, a radiologist will analyze and interpret the images from your exam and prepare a full report. This report will be faxed directly to your doctor who will share the results with you.

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Will my insurance cover the exam?

Mobile Diagnostic Imaging participates in several major insurance and health plans. By providing us with current and complete insurance information, we can help you gain the most from your benefits. Our business office representatives are available to assist you with questions about your health coverage, claim submissions or payment. You may reach a business office representative by calling toll free 866-331-9223 during normal business hours.