What Is Magnetic Resonance Imaging?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive, painless procedure that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create a series of high-resolution images of your body; x-rays are not used. MRI assists doctors in diagnosing various problems within your body. Most frequently, MRI is used when evaluating the brain, spinal cord, joints, breast and vascular system.
Sol Radiology Earns ACR Accreditation
Sol Radiology has been awarded a three-year term of accreditation in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) as the result of a recent review by the American College of Radiology® (ACR®). MRI is a noninvasive medical test that utilizes magnetic fields to produce anatomical images of internal body parts to help physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions.
The ACR gold seal of accreditation represents the highest level of image quality and patient safety. It is awarded only to facilities meeting specific requirements based on ACR Practice Parameters and Technical Standards after a peer-review evaluation by board-certified physicians and medical physicists who are experts in the field. Image quality, personnel qualifications, adequacy of facility equipment, quality control procedures and quality assurance programs are assessed. The findings are reported back to the facility and provide the practice with a comprehensive report that can be used for continuous practice improvement.
What to Expect?
Before
Prior to your exam, you may continue your normal dietary regime. Upon your arrival, we will ask you to change into a cotton gown and remove all metal objects if you have not already done so. Some of these objects include jewelry, metal zippers or buttons, hairpins and hearing aids. Please notify our office ahead of time if you have any metal devices inside your body or if you are pregnant.
During
For the duration of your exam you will be asked to lie completely still on a table so that the MRI can produce the highest-quality images. During scanning, there will be a loud (at times very loud) knocking noise; during imaging, we will provide you with earplugs or headphones with music to minimize this noise. You will also be able to communicate through an intercom with our technologists if you are feeling any discomfort. The entire exam usually lasts around 20 to 30 minutes. Special exams can last up to an hour.
After
After your exam, you can return to your activities as normal. Our highly trained radiologists will analyze your images and report the findings for you to discuss with your doctor.
FAQ
Most frequent questions and answers
Sol Radiology also supports an “open” MRI unit which does not involve the tunnel associated with MRI.
We have the largest open bore (“closed”) scanner in the region. The 70 cm high field system generates extraordinary images. Some patients require the use of a true open scanner. We are fortunate to provide the option of an open bore scanner for those patients.
MRI does not use radiation to create the images
Due to the strong magnet field dirt can actually be pulled out of clothing, so to keep our rooms clean we ask that most patients to change into a gown. Also out of the safety for you, we request that you remove all jewelry. These items are best left at home for their security.
We prefer to keep our focus on the patient. Sometimes a guest can be distracting and remove our focus from the task at hand. We would prefer to have the guest wait in the waiting area. Exceptions are made for children.
Gadolinium is a chemical element of atomic number 64. It is a clear substance but shows up on our MRI images. It allows us to see certain structures more clearly.
Most exams can be completed in about 30 minutes. Duration varies based on the type of exam you have scheduled. Our longest exam is about 60 minutes.
Yes, every patient is given a squeeze ball to use in case of an emergency. Also, the staff frequently checks in with each patient through headphones
Yes, we offer music. Unfortunately, we are unable to let you use your own music device.
All of our magnets produce diagnostic images which means any pathology that might be causing a problem can be seen, regardless of the strength of the magnet.
Our 1.5T and 3T are a five feet long. The body part being scanned must be centered in the bore (tunnel). So, in most cases, your entire body will NOT be in the scanner. Also, the direction you enter the bore depends on what type of exam you are having. Sometimes it is possible to go feet first instead of head first.
