What is an MRI?
The High Definition Magnetic Resonance (HDMR) scanner provides physicians with highly
detailed pictures of anatomy and pathology to help them evaluate a wide range of
patient conditions, including stroke, musculoskeletal, and heart disease.
The HDMR provides optimal diagnostic capabilities for
the assessment of the brain, spine, prostate, abdomen, and pelvis, as well as
perform orthopedic procedures on the elbow, wrist, hip and ankle.
The new HDMR is the most powerful MRI scanner available to patients in the Central
San Joaquin Valley. This translates into our ability to provide the highest level
of care available for patients in need.
How does an MRI work?
MRI uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field rather than X-rays to provide
clear and detailed pictures of internal organs and tissues. Because MRI can
provide such clear pictures of soft-tissue structures near and around bones, it is
usually the best choice for examination of the body's major joints, the spine for disc
disease, and the soft tissues of the extremities.
When is an MRI necessary?
Using MR images, physicians can locate and identify:
- Causes of pain.
- Degenerative disorders (arthritis, deterioration of joint surfaces).
- Fractures not visible with use of X-ray.
- Herniated discs.
- Swelling or bleeding in the tissues in and around joints and bones.
- Small tears and injuries to tendons, ligaments, and muscles.
- Evaluate spinal cord trauma.
What to Expect
You will be comfortably positioned on a special table that slides into the MRI
system. The technologist will perform the MRI sequences at the control unit in an
adjoining room. You will be able to communicate with the technologist by means of
an intercom, and music or earplugs will be supplied for your comfort. An MRI does
not cause any pain, but you may find it uncomfortable to remain still during the
examination.
How to Prepare
Preparations will vary depending on the kind of exam you are having performed:
For any MRI please plan on arriving 15 minutes prior to your appointment for patient
registration.
An MRI uses strong magnets, so you will be asked to remove your watch, and any other
jewelry or metal objects. You may also be asked to remove any makeup you are
wearing, as some brands contain trace amounts of metal. Braces and fillings are
not normally a problem.
- MRI of the gallbladder and bile ducts (MRCP)
- Nothing to eat or drink at least eight hours prior to the exam.
- MRI Arthrogram
- Nothing to eat or drink for at least four hours prior to the exam.
- Patient needs to bring a driver.
- Any MRI requiring sedation
- Nothing to eat or drink for at least four hours prior to the exam.
- Patient needs to bring a driver.
- MRI of the arterial blood vessels (MRA)
- Nothing to eat or drink for at least four hours prior to the exam.
- Other MRI exams
- Other MRI exams do not require preparation.
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