MRI/MRA
What is MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING (MRI)?
Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, uses strong magnet and radio waves to provide clear and detailed diagnostic images of internal body organs and tissues. MRI is a valuable tool for the diagnosis of a broad range of conditions, including:
- cancer
- heart and vascular disease
- stroke
- joint and musculoskeletal disorders
MRI allows evaluation of some body structures that may not be as visible with other diagnostic imaging methods.
At White Plains Radiology Associates, we have always prided ourselves on our cutting edge technology, and in addition to our 1.5 T high-field short-bore, and open MRI units, we offer; a 3.0T MRI, the highest field strength commercially available; the Open Sitting MRI, a totally non-claustrophobic MRI, and an exclusive breast MRI at our Westchester Dedicated Breast MRI center.
What are some common uses of MRI?
Imaging of the Musculoskeletal System : MRI is often used to study the knee, ankle, foot, shoulder, elbow, wrist, and hand. MRI is also a highly accurate method for evaluation of soft tissue structures such as tendons and ligaments, which are seen in great detail. Even subtle injuries are easily detected. In addition, MRI is used for the diagnosis of spinal problems including disc herniation, spinal stenosis, and spinal tumors.
Imaging of the Heart: MRI of the heart, aorta, coronary arteries, and blood vessels is a tool for diagnosing coronary artery disease and other heart problems. Doctors can examine the size and thickness of the chambers of the heart and determine the extent of damage caused by a heart attack or heart disease.
Imaging for Cancer & Functional Disorders: Organs of the chest and abdomen such as the liver, lungs, kidney, and other abdominal organs can be examined in great detail with MRI. This aids in the diagnosis and evaluation of tumors and functional disorders. In the early diagnosis of breast cancer, MRI is an alternative to traditional x-ray mammography. Furthermore because there is no radiation exposure is involved, MRI is often used for examination of the male and female reproductive systems.
How should I prepare for an MRI?
- Before your MRI exam, remove all accessories including hair pins, jewelry, eyeglasses, hearing aids, wigs, dentures. During the exam, these metal objects may interfere with the magnetic field, affecting the quality of the MRI images taken.
- Notify your technologist if you have:
- any prosthetic joints – hip, knee
- a heart pacemaker (or artificial heart valve), defibrillator or artificial heart value
- an intrauterine device (IUD),
- any metal plates, pins, screws, or surgical staples in your body.
- tattoos and permanent make-up.
- a bullet or shrapnel in your body, or ever worked with metal.
- if you might be pregnant or suspect you may be pregnant.
- if you are claustrophobic. Some patients who undergo MRI in an enclosed unit may feel confined. If you are not easily reassured, a sedative may be administered.
What Is Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)
Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) is an MRI study of the blood vessels which uses MRI technology to detect, diagnose, and aid in the treatment of heart disorders, stroke, and blood vessel diseases. MR Angiography provides detailed images of blood vessels without using contrast material, although a special form of contrast material is often given to provide clearer images of the MRI exam.
MR Angiography may be used to examine blood vessels of the brain, kidneys (renal arteries), legs, pelvis, lungs, heart, and neck. The procedure is used to identify disease, aneurysms in the aorta or major blood vessels, detecting atherosclerosis diseases in the carotid artery of the neck, and identifying aneurysms of arteriovenus malformation inside the brain.
What should I expect during this exam?
Depending on how many images are needed, the exam generally takes 15 to 45 minutes. However, very detailed studies may take longer.
- You must lie down on a sliding table and be comfortably positioned.
- Even though the technologist must leave the room, you will be able to communicate with them at any time using an intercom.
- If necessary, many MRI centers allow a friend or family member to stay in the room with you during the exam.
- You will be asked remain still during the actual imaging process. However, between sequences, which last between 2-15 minutes, slight movement is allowed.
- Depending on the part of the body being examined, a contrast material may be used to enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels. A small needle is placed in your arm or hand vein and a saline solution IV drip will run through the intravenous line to prevent clotting. About two-thirds of the way through the exam, the contrast material is injected.
What will I experience during an MRI?
- MRI is painless.
- You will hear loud tapping or thumping during the exam. Earplugs or earphones may be provided to you by the MRI center.
- You may feel warmth in the area being examined. This is normal.
- If a contrast injection is needed, there may be some discomfort at the injection site. You may also feel a cool sensation at the site during the injection.
For more information on this topic, please visit www.Radiologyinfo.org.
