MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI or MR) provides greatly detailed images and demonstrates higher contrast between different soft tissues in the body than CT, making it ideal for neurological (brain), musculoskeletal and oncological (cancer) imaging.  The 1.5T high-field MR scanner used at CMI offers high quality images in a shorter period of time compared to lower field scanners. In addition to MR of extremities, spine, and brain, CMI is proud to offer Breast MR, the imaging tool physicians turn to when more information is needed than provided by Mammograms, Ultrasounds or clinical exams.

Extremity – Since MR give such clear pictures of soft-tissue structures near and around bones, it is widely used to diagnose extremity injuries, particularly those affecting the knee, hip, foot, shoulder, elbow and wrist. The images allow the physician to see even very small tears and injuries to ligaments and muscles that may not be detected on plain X-Rays.

Brain – MR of the brain is a painless exam showing detailed anatomy and may be used in the evaluation of many conditions, including the presence of tumor, stroke, or vascular disease.

Spine – This MR exam visualizes the normal and diseased tissue of the spine; the anatomy of the vertebrae that make up the spine as well as the spaces between are visualized in great detail, assisting in the detection of bulging, degenerated or herniated disks, vertebral fractures, and tumors.

Angiography (MRA) – This type of MR exam is used to study the blood vessels. MRA is used to generate images of the arteries to check for stenosis or narrowing, blockages or aneurysms; it is often evaluate arteries in the brain and neck, the thoracic and abdominal aorta, renal arteries, and a "run-off" of the arteries in the legs.

Breast – Offering the latest in disease detection in breast care, Breast MR is used in conjunction with Mammography, Breast Ultrasound, and clinical exam to evaluate the breast tissue in the following:

• Women with recently diagnosed breast cancer, undergoing pre-operative evaluation.
• Women with known breast cancer, assessing for either new or recurrent cancer.
• Women with significantly elevated breast cancer risk factors including screening in women known or likely carriers of the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation.

In addition to these specific exams, MR may be used to evaluate organs of the chest and abdomen, including the lung, liver, kidneys, and pancreas. The high detail of the images allows for diagnosis and evaluation of tumors and functional disorders.

Depending of the information requested by the ordering physician, MR exams may be performed with or without a contrast agent. These materials, also called contrast media or just "contrast", are used to highlight specific parts of the body, making them easier to see or distinguish from other parts. MR contrast is given intravenously (IV).

PATIENT PREPARATION FOR MR

Please adhere to following instructions for a successful MR scan:

• Bring a list of prescription medications
• Continue to take medications as directed
• If you require pain or anti-anxiety medication in order to complete your exam, please make arrangements for a driver
• Notify your physician if you are pregnant, breast-feeding, or diabetic.
• Wear warm, comfortable clothing (preferably without metal snaps or zippers)
• Do not wear jewelry
• If your exam is ordered WITH CONTRAST you should not eat for four (4) hours prior to exam time
• If your exam is ordered WITH CONTRAST, a blood test for serum creatinine will be required before the exam if you are over age of 65, diabetic, or have poor renal (kidney) function

Also, due to the use of a high magnetic field, it is important to notify the technologist if you have any of the following:

• Pacemaker, pacing wires, or defibrillator
• Mitral or aortic valve replacements (Please bring implant identification card)
• Brain aneurysm clips
• Inner ear implants
• Implanted spinal cord stimulator or brain stimulator
• Bone growth stimulator
• Metal fragments in one or both eyes (If questionable, a simple X-Ray will be performed prior to exam)

WHAT TO EXPECT

If your MR exam requires giving contrast by IV, or injected into a vein, the staff will insert an IV line just before the exam. CMI is also able to provide injections to patients who have Power Ports; the patient must present their card they have been given that identifies their port as a Power Port.

You may be asked to change clothing; scrubs or gowns are provided. You will be asked to lie down on the imaging table; once comfortably positioned, you will be asked to lie as still as possible. The technologist will instruct you throughout the exam; you may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds. Exam times average 30-60 minutes, depending on the type of exam ordered.

Due to the loud noises produced by the MR equipment, you will be provided earplugs during your examination. You may also choose to listen to music as an alternative to the earplugs.

After the exam is completed, you may resume normal activities in regards to diet and exercise. If your exam was performed using contrast, drink plenty of fluids.

The images will be evaluated by the Radiologist and a complete report sent to the ordering physician; your physician will review the results with you.