What is an MRI?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an imaging study that utilizes magnetic fields to capture views of soft tissue and fluids in the body. These images provide you and your physician with key insights into your well-being. MRI scans can diagnose a wide range of medical conditions. Larchmont Medical Imaging offers innovative MRI technology to make sure high-quality images are created without sacrificing patient comfort.
- Wide Bore MRIs – 20% wider than a traditional MRI scan machine.
- Open MRI – Similar to a traditional MRI scan machine, but the sides of the MRI scan machine are open.
What Are The Benefits Of An MRI?
There are similarities and differences between MRI scans and other imaging techniques such as computer tomography (CT) scans. An MRI scan doesn’t utilize any amounts of radiation. Whereas, X-rays and CT scans use very small amounts of radiation to produce their images. MRI scans provide a higher degree of detail when looking at softer tissues and other internal structures of the body. An MRI scan is one of the preferred imaging studies for the evaluation of the brain, spine, abdomen, pelvis, and musculoskeletal system.
What Are The Common Types Of MRIs?
An MRI scan can be conducted on most parts of the human body. For each part of the body, there is a specific MRI imaging study that goes along with it. Larchmont Medical Imaging utilizes advanced MRI equipment and protocols to produce the most detailed images possible of the area being studied.
- Abdominal MRIs – Assess abdominal and pelvic abnormalities.
- Brain MRIs – Assess neurological conditions and detect abnormalities in the brain.
- Breast MRIs – Measures the efficacy of breast cancer treatments and screen high risk patients.
- Cardiac MRIs – Evaluates heart function and viability.
- Orthopedic MRIs – Identifies stress fractures, torn ligaments, damaged tendons, and worn cartilage.
- Spine MRIs – Identifies herniated discs and spinal conditions.
How Do I Prepare For An MRI?
Most MRI examinations do not require any specific preparation. If you are scheduled for an abdominal MRI, we will ask you to refrain from eating or drinking for two hours prior to the exam.
Some metallic implants such as cardiac pacemakers are not considered safe for MRI imaging. We will ask you to complete a screening form to check for any metal implants that may not be safe during an MRI scan.
Some specialty MRI scans are performed best when contrast material is used. Contrast material is a harmless solution that is either ingested or injected before an MRI scan to allow for more detailed images to be captured. Patients with a history of kidney, blood pressure, or insulin conditions may have to get bloodwork prior to an MRI scan with contrast.
The average MRI scan takes about 15 – 20 minutes to perform. Larchmont Medical Imaging is equipped with fast scan technology that allows for decreased scan times. It is best to wear clothing that doesn’t contain any metal such as zippers, buttons, belts, and so forth. Since magnetic fields are being utilized during the study, metal materials can interfere with the results of the study. After your MRI scan is completed, results will be reviewed by one of our subspecialized radiologists and a report will be sent to your physician.
