MRI Services

Some people are intimidated just by hearing the term MRI. But they shouldn't be. Having an MRI at CGH is the easiest and most accurate way to achieve the proper diagnosis.
 

About Your MRI Exam

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses high magnetic fields to produce pictures of internal body structures. MRI is a totally painless procedure that uses no x-ray or radiation. An MRI scanner produces cross-sectional images as thin as 0.5 mm, which allows physicians to see internal structures in great detail. Because of the magnetic field, patients with cardiac pacemakers, cerebral aneurysm clips or ear implants may not be scanned.  
 

Before the Exam

• Fasting is not required before your MRI exam. You may eat and drink as usual.
• If you are taking any medications, especially pain medication, take them as you normally would.
• You may wear comfortable clothing with no metal attached, or gowns will be provided for you to change.
• Upon arrival in our Diagnostic Imaging Department, you will be given a questionnaire that asks specific questions to help us tailor the exam to your individual needs. This questionnaire can be downloaded here. Please complete it and bring it with you to your exam. The form can be completed in the waiting room before your appointment, but you should allow 15-20 minutes to fill out the questionnaire and to complete your check-in.

The Exam

A magnetic resonance examination (MRI) is a simple and safe procedure.

You will be asked to remove watches, jewelry, credit and ATM cards, coins and any other metallic objects from your possession. A place to lock up your belongings will be provided. A technologist will explain the test to you, then ask you to lie down on a padded table. The table will slide forward, positioning the part of your body being scanned into the center of the magnet. The machine will make loud knocking noises during the imaging sequences. Earplugs or headphones with music will be provided if you desire.

The typical exam ranges from 30 to 45 minutes, although some exams may take longer. The most important part of the exam for you is to lie very still. This is crucial because the scanner is very sensitive and any movement during the sequences will blur the pictures, thus compromising diagnostic quality of the examination.
 

After the Exam

Following the exam, you may leave. There are no after affects from the MRI. The images are then processed for interpretation by the radiologist. Results are not immediately available. The radiologist will send a diagnostic report to your physician to convey the information gathered from the scan within 24-48 hours. Please call your doctor to make an appointment for the results.

You will be pre-registered over the phone. Please arrive in the Diagnostic Imaging department 15 minutes before your appointment. If you have any questions about your appointment, please call 625-0400, ext. 4427, and ask for Doug O'Connell, RTR(MR); Janelle Schmitt, RTR(MR), Tammy Chino, RTR(MR), or Ryan Whiteside, RTR(MR).
 

About the MRI Scanner

The Philips 1.5 Tesla Eclipse MRI scanner at CGH Medical Center is designed to comfortably accommodate a wide range of patients. You will immediately notice the openness of the room and the large diameter tunnel with openings at both ends to help reduce anxiety from claustrophobia. The table is well padded and lowers for easy access. An intercom system allows constant communication with the technologist throughout the procedure.

Our "traditional" MRI scanner is far superior in the quality of images and is preferred by most physicians as a diagnostic tool compared to the new open MRI machines available in the area.


Still have questions or need more information? Email us.