Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

• Neuro, Body, Musculoskeletal
• Whole Body MR Angiography
• MRCP, Dynamic MR Imaging
• Functional Brain Imaging
• Cardiac MR Imaging
• MR Spectroscopy
• Open MRI/Closed MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI is a diagnostic procedure that uses a strong magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to produce detailed pictures of the inside of the body. It gives your doctor information that is simply not available through other diagnostic tests. The exam is safe, simple and painless.

Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)
MRA is a type of MRI study used for the evaluation and screening of the vascular structures (blood vessels).

The MRI Facility of Choice
From routine to complex cases, our MRI systems enable us to offer physicians and their patients high quality images, obtained in the shortest length of time.

MRI Technology
At our outpatient imaging center, we offer patients the option of two MRI machines.

OPEN MRI - Toledo’s Most Patient-Friendly Open MRI offers claustrophobic and/or large patients the comfort of an open magnet with the quality of a traditional (or closed) magnet.

High Field Imaging Quality

• This stronger open magnet (.6 Tesla) offers a full range of diagnostic studies
• Extensive clinical applications are possible – Neuro, Orthopedic, Spine, Body and Angio
• Quality images equal to those done on a closed system
• Radiologist on-site for prompt interpretations
• Sub-specialized MRI radiologists available to review studies

Excellent Patient Comfort

• A wide opening helps eliminate anxiety and claustrophobia
• Patients enter sideways for all studies, rather than head or feet first
• Patients can be accessed from 3 sides, which works well with pediatric, elderly or large patients
• Studies can be completed more quickly than with lower field strength magnets
• Less noise than most other magnets
• Heated blankets

TRADITIONAL MRI – This traditional (or closed) 1.5 Tesla magnet produces quality images in less time than an open magnet. Features include MRA and MRCP, as well as enhanced Diffusion Weighted Imaging capabilities.

Preparing For Your MRI Exam

The MRI exam needs no special preparation on your part. You may eat or drink prior to your exam, and take any medication as you normally would unless your physicians or our office has instructed you otherwise.

Music will be provided through headphones during your exam. Feel free to bring along a favorite CD or you may select from our music library.

Screening Questions
Because some metal interferes with the MRI machine and may cause harm to you, you cannot be examined if you have:

• Brain aneurysm clips
• A pacemaker
• Metal fragments in one or both eyes
• Inner ear implants
• An implanted spinal cord stimulator

If is important to inform us if you are pregnant or breastfeeding, or if you have anemia or any diseases that affect red blood cells.

You may be asked additional questions before having your MRI, and/or you may be asked the same questions by several different individuals. It is also important for us to know if you have had any previous testing (of the same area), including the approximate dates and locations.

The MRI Exam Itself Is Quite Simple

• Most routine MRI exams take 30 – 45 minutes to complete. However, depending on the type of information your doctor requires, an exam may take longer than this. We’ll be happy to discuss this with you prior to your exam.
• A qualified technologist will help make you comfortable on the padded table. The table then moves into the large opening, which is well-lit and ventilated.
• During the exam, you won’t feel a thing, but you will hear a drumming sound coming from the magnet. Earplugs or headphones are available for your use.
• A technologist outside of the exam area will be able to see and hear you at all times.
• Some exams require a contract injection to help diagnose specific diseases.
• You may leave immediately following your exam. There are no harmful effects.

Receiving Your Results
A radiologist, a physician specifically trained to supervise and interpret radiology examinations, will analyze the images and send a signed report to your referring physician, who will share the results with you. In some cases the radiologist may discuss results with you at the conclusion of your exam.