Wide Bore MRI
MRI is a diagnostic procedure that uses a large magnet, radio-frequencies, and a computer to produce radiation-free detailed images of organs, structures, and various soft tissues within the body. An MRI machine is a large, tube-shaped machine that creates a strong magnetic field around the patient during an exam which creates and pulses radio-waves. These waves interact with the body and produce detailed images of the area of interest.
Here is a short video of an example of an MRI exam
HerAt Mountainview, we have installed a new Wide Bore Toshiba Titan MRI machine. We chose this state-of-the-art machine because it incorporates the features our patients request the most:
*The opening of the machine is extra wide and can be more comfortable for larger and claustrophobic patients.
*The length of the tube shape of the machine is extra short, making it much more comfortable, allowing the patient’s head to rest outside the machine during many exams.
*This new “quieter” MRI can help to reduce anxiety and restlessness for patients. The machine is made with a special sound dampening material that reduces the “knocking” sound.
* Most exams on the new machine can be performed without injecting the patient with contrast material, a special dye that helps show more detail.
*Because of the detail of the machine, many of our exams now take half the time as they did before. This allows the patient to get in and out, and on their way faster and more comfortably.
If you are claustrophobic, you may want to discuss taking a mild sedative with your physician before having your MRI. You should notify the MRI Technologist of any shrapnel, bullets, or other pieces of metal which may be present in your body due to accidents.You may be asked to wear a gown during the exam, or you may be allowed to wear your own clothing if it is loose-fitting and has no metal fasteners. You may be asked if you are pregnant if being injected with a contrast material. Should you take a mild sedative before your exam, please plan for someone to drive you home after.
To prepare for a MRI, you should:
- Tell your doctor if you have a history of or have current kidney problems.
- Tell your doctor if you have any of the following before your MRI:
- pacemaker
- defibrillator
- aneurysm or vascular clip
- intra-cranial (brain) by-pass clips or shunts
- cochlear implants
- neurostimulator (tens unit)
- Vena Cava filter (umbrella)
- shrapnel, metallic splinters, or other foreign bodies
- bio-stimulator
- tattoos, permanent eyeliner, wig, hairpiece
- surgical prosthesis (joint replacement) or metal implants
- infusion pump
- have a history of gun shot wound
- penile prostheesis
- probe or capsule for heart burn or acid reflux
Metallic objects can be damaged and can be dangerous during an MRI. Because they can interfere with the magnetic field of the MRI unit, metal and electronic objects are not allowed in the exam room including but not limited to:
- jewelry
- watches
- credit cards
- cell phones
- hearing aids,
- pins,
- hairpins,
- metal zippers,
- removable dental work,
- pens,
- pocketknives,
- guns,
- eyeglasses,
- body piercings
Patients who might have metal objects in certain parts of their bodies may also require an xray prior to an MRI. You should notify the MRI Technologist of any shrapnel, bullets, or other pieces of metal which may be present in your body.
Please arrive about 15 minutes before your exam to fill out a brief questionnaire and history form, or you can pre-fill them out online Click Here
Depending on the type of MRI exam, the patient will lie either feet first or head first on an imaging table. A body coil will be placed over the area of interest to help generate the best possible images. Each exam is different and your technologist will explain yours to you before beginning. Most exams will range from 15- 30 minutes, some taking longer. MRIs sometimes require the use of intravenous contrast, a special dye that is injected to help highlight the area of interest. MRI requires you to be very still while the table moves you into a wide tunnel. The machine will make a series of “knocking” sounds as it takes your images. You will be offered earplugs or heads phones to help block out the remaining sounds of the machine. You will usually be alone in the exam room during the MRI procedure. However, the technologist will be able to see, hear, and speak with you at all times using a two-way intercom. We allow a friend or parent to stay in the room as long as they are also screened for safety in the magnetic environment.
Should you take a mild sedative before your MRI, you must have someone drive you home afterwards. One of our onsite board certified radiologists will interpret your exam and fax or email a report to your referring physician within 24 hours of your exam. We always welcome our patients to pick up a copy of their report for their own personal records.
Here is a link for the Fast-Check Forms and Questionnaires.
