MRI

What exactly is an MRI?

MRIs or Magnetic Resonance Images let doctors see inside your body to identify and diagnose a wide variety of possible medical conditions—all without exposure to X-rays. Instead, an MRI uses a powerful magnet, radio waves, and special coils to detect electrical signals from your body. A computer then turns this information into detailed images our doctors can use to help determine what might be wrong with you or your family member.

What’s the benefit?

MR imaging is painless and much quicker than you think, especially with our new Philips Ingenia 1.5T S MR system. It has a wide opening, so it’s much less confining than older MR systems and more comfortable for a wider range of patients.

Since it’s fast, you’ll be done quickly and it’s likely your doctor will get the needed images in the first scan.

Why are MRI scans such a good choice?

An MRI allows doctors to see inside the body without surgery or exposing you to ionizing radiation. Our Philips Ingenia 1.5T S MR system produces clear, detailed images of your internal organs and structures from many angles. This gives them better information more quickly than with some past tests.

How do I prepare for an MRI?

For many MRI exams, no special preparation is needed. For some, you may need to fast for 4-12 hours. Others require you to swallow a fluid, or to have an injection, that helps show what’s going on inside your body. Guidelines vary with the specific exam and also with the facility. You will be asked to remove all metal (earrings, watches, bobby pins, etc.) and credit cards. You may be asked to wear a gown during the exam or wear loose-fitting clothing with no metal fasteners, zippers, or buttons.

How long will the exam take?

With the Philips Ingenia 1.5T S, we can perform routine exams of the brain, spine, knee, ankle, and liver quickly and easily. It will depend on what is being studied. More complex vascular, cardiac, and musculoskeletal studies can last from 20 to 40 minutes. You should allow extra time in case the exam lasts longer than expected.

Does the scanner make a lot of noise?

The in-bore experience provides soothing audio. However, the magnet does make a slight rapping sound as images are being taken. The Ingenia 1.5T S comes equipped with technologies that are able to reduce acoustic noise by up to 80%. In between scans the machine is quiet. Your MRI technologist will provide you with hearing protection, but you can still hear the technologist if he or she speaks to you during the exam.

Will I have to hold still the whole time?

We’ll get the highest quality results if you hold still during the exam. The technologists will guide you and let you know when you can move between scans.

Will I be alone?

You’ll be in contact with one of our technologists at all times. Even when he or she is not in the MRI room, you will be able to talk to him or her by intercom.

Can anyone get an MRI?

An MRI isn’t for everyone. Be sure to inform your physician if you have a pacemaker, aneurysm clips in the brain, a shunt with telesensor, inner ear implants, metal fragments in one or both eyes, implanted spinal cord stimulators, or if you’re pregnant or breastfeeding.

How do I schedule an MRI?

In most cases, your doctor can do that for you. If you have questions about getting an MRI at Ochsner Rush Imaging Center, be sure to contact us at 601.703.4467.