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MRI
Montwood Medical has recently purchased
an MRI system to better serve you. There is no longer any need for you, our
patients, to have to travel to two different locations for you health needs. Our
MRI will save you time and money!
FAQ's
What is a MRI Scan?
MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is a routine diagnostic procedure. Images of
the internal tissues of the human body are produced by using the tiny magnets of
hydrogen nuclei which are abundant in all of us as parts of water, fat, protein,
and other molecules. The large magnetic field of the MRI machine causes the
hydrogen magnets to align, while applied radio waves excite them to transmit
signals similar to the radio waves generated at FM radio stations. The locations
of the signals within the body are identified using magnetic field gradient
pulses which are the source of the loud knocking noises heard during the
examination. Once enough signals have been collected, they are processed by
powerful computers to generate pictures of the human anatomy in vivid detail for
the radiologist to analyze and diagnose abnormalities.
Why are MRI Scans performed?
Your physician may request an MRI study for a number of
reasons. MRI is often used to obtain specific diagnostic information not already
provided by other imaging technologies such as ultrasound, computed tomography,
and nuclear medicine. MRI may be needed to rule out disease and to facilitate
medical, surgical, and other treatments for conditions of the brain, spinal
column and spinal cord; eye, ear, nose and throat; bones, joints, and muscles;
heart and blood vessels; chest and lungs; abdominal organs and digestive tract;
and, kidneys , urinary tract, and pelvic organs. Such conditions may include
congenital and developmental disorders, genetic and metabolic diseases,
infections and inflammatory conditions, traumatic and other types of injury,
vascular and blood diseases, and cancer conditions of childhood.
How do I prepare for a MRI Scan?
You may eat or drink as usual unless the MRI examination
requires the injection or ingestion of a contrast agent for image enhancement,
if sedation or anesthesia is necessary, or if there are other special care
considerations. In these situations, specific dietary restrictions and other
instructions are provided by your physician in advance of the appointment. It is
very important to adhere to these instructions to insure your safety while
undergoing the MRI examination. Otherwise, the procedure will be rescheduled to
a time and date that allows for the appropriate preparation. It is also
important to notify the MRI staff of any active illness, allergy, or previous
drug reaction that may prevent the child from undergoing the examination safely.
How is a MRI Scan performed?
Upon arriving at the MRI suite, your appointment and
registration are confirmed by the MRI scheduling coordinator. You will be asked
to fill out the MRI screening questionnaire. The MRI nurse then asks a few
questions and does a clinical screening examination. The patient must remove all
metal objects (e.g. jewelry) and electronic devices (e.g. watch) and change into
hospital attire or wear clothing from home that is comfortable and free of metal
(zippers, buttons, etc.). The nurse then prepares you for the MRI procedure,
which may include oral or intravenous sedation by the radiologist, or anesthesia
by an anesthesiologist.
The MRI Technologist positions and secures you
comfortably on a narrow bed within the large, doughnut-shaped magnet and adjusts
the radio wave coil. The technologist then performs the MRI examination with the
radiologist and is in contact with the patient at all times. During the MRI
procedure, the patient will hear several series of repetitive pulsing noises. It
is particularly important for the patient to remain still during these noises
since the MRI machine is obtaining images at those times. If the first pictures
are motion-free, this will help shorten the total exam time and prevent delays.
An entire MRI examination may take from twenty minutes to one and a half hours
depending on the type of information required by the radiologist and your
physician. All patients undergoing sedation or anesthesia receive continuous
vital monitoring and support.
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