About LCMC Open MRI
The Siemens MAGNETOM Espree 1.5 Tesla, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) combines a larger bore, or opening, and a shorter length magnet which assures 80% of patients heads and legs will be outside the magnet, for claustrophobic patients with the ability to capture high-field quality diagnostic images. The Open Bore accommodates patients of all sizes, up to 550 lbs. One Foot of spacious headroom: you’ll no longer feel like you’re nose-to-nose with the top of the magnet. In addition, the new MRI is much faster, averaging 30-40 minutes instead of 60 minutes.
What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Magnetic Resonance Images (MRI) are produced by using two natural, harmless forces - magnetic fields and radio waves. With the use of computers, information from your scan is made into two-dimensional pictures of the body allowing physicians to provide an accurate diagnosis of your medical condition. MRI exams are painless and have no known side effects.
Images created by the MRI scanner are similar to an X-ray, but the MRI process can “See” through hard bone to the soft tissue in your body like muscles and internal organs. These images are very precise showing differences between normal and abnormal tissues.
How do I prepare for my MRI exam?
Very little special preparation is required prior to an MRI exam. You may eat normally and go about your daily routine, Continue to take any medical prescribed by your doctor unless otherwise directed.
Comfortable, athletic-type clothing (like a sweat suit) without metal snaps or sippers is the recommended type of clothing to wear to your appointment. Gowns will also be available.
Because of the magnetic field, you will be asked to leave the following items in a safe place outside the scan room:
• Coins
• Credit Cards
• Jewelry
• Glasses
• Watches
• Hair Pins/Wigs
• Other Metal Objects
You may be asked to remove makeup, dentures and hearing aids,
You will be asked if you have had brain, ear, eye or other surgeries or any of the following:
• Pacemaker
• Neurostimulators (TENS-unit)
• Metal Implants
• Aneurysm Clips
• Surgical Staples
• Implanted Drug Infusion Device (Insulin Pump)
• Exposure of metal fragments to your eye
• Shrapnel
• Permanent Eyeliner
• Heart Valves
If you are pregnant, please notify your physician and LCMC.
Please check with your physician if you are uncertain about any of the above mentioned items.
What can I expect during my MRI exam?
In the magnet room, a technologist will assist you onto the padded table, The table will move slowly into the magnet opening. You will hear sounds similar to a drumbeat as pictures of your body are formed. Ear plugs will be provided. Your doctor may order contrast (dye) to be administered for your test to enhance areas of interest.
At all times during the exam a technologist will be able to see and hear you.
The exam takes about 30 to 75 minutes depending on the type of information your doctor needs. It is important to lie completely still while the images are being acquired. Motion will affect the sharpness of the images.
What will happen after my MRI exam?
Because there are no side effects, you may leave immediately following the procedure. The radiologist will review the MR images and report the results to your physician. Your doctor will schedule a time with you to discuss the results of your MRI exam.
Cancellations
Cancellations sometimes are unavoidable; however, we ask that you notify us one day in advance whenever possible. This courtesy assists the staff in daily scheduling of other patients who may be waiting for an appointment.