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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an advanced technology, which creates detailed images of the human body. Through the combination of a strong magnetic field and radio waves, MRI provides doctors with a higher degree of diagnostic accuracy than ever before without the use of X-rays.

Midwest Regional Medical Center’s Diagnostic Imaging department offers the latest technology providing you with the conventional high field MRI and the Open high field MRI.

Am I at Risk?
MRI is extremely safe. There are no known health risks associated with the Magnetic Resonance Imagery but precautions should be taken because of the strength of the magnetic field. Any metal, including jewelry, braces, hair clips and piercings should be removed before the test.

Advantages of the high field conventional MRI

  • Faster scan times
  • Produces the highest quality of images including MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography)
  • Performs functional MRI

Advantages of the Open MRI

  • The sides are open
  • Suitable for larger patients up to 500 lbs
  • Allows for comfortable positioning of extremities

Areas MRI can scan

  • Brain
  • Pelvis
  • Shoulder
  • TMJs
  • Spine
  • Joints
  • Abdominal
  • Breast
  • Chest
  • Heart
  • MR Angiographies

Your Examination
There are no restrictions regarding eating or taking medications before or after the exam unless you are instructed otherwise.

Before your appointment let your technologist or physician know if you have any of the following:

  • Pacemaker or ACID (automatic cardiac implanted defibulator)
  • Cerebral aneurysm clips
  • Neurostimulator
  • Cochlear implant
  • Metal fragments in your eyes or any other parts of your body

What to expect
If your physician or the technologist determines that it is safe to proceed with your MRI exam, you will be asked to remove all of the metal from your body including jewelry, body piercings, hair pins or clips, and change into a gown before entering the MRI scan room. Your personal possessions will be placed in a secured locker for safekeeping.

The technologist will enter an adjacent room and will stay in constant contact with you visually as well as via an intercom system. Most exams will take 30 to 60 minutes. While the machine is in operation you will hear intermittent humming and thumping sounds. This is quite normal and is simply the sound of the equipment as images are being produced. Music or earplugs will be provided for your comfort. Our staff will do everything possible to make your MRI a pleasant experience.

Your Results
A board-certified radiologist will review your images and generate a written report, typically the same day as your exam. Your doctor will receive a copy for the report within 24 hours and discuss the findings with you.

Our Professionals
The Diagnostic Imaging Center at Midwest Regional Medical Center is composed of board-certified radiologists and technologists who are trained in the latest MRI technology.