MRI Imaging Services

UDI offers a wide range of imaging procedures. On average, the actual MR exam usually takes about 30 minutes for each specific procedure. More specialized examinations such as, MR Abdomen, MR Arthrograms or MRA procedures may take longer than 45 minutes. In general, Open MR procedures usually take longer than high-field examinations.

Yes, your physician must provide you with a prescription for the procedure in order for you to receive a MR examination. The prescription provides specific instructions regarding the procedure to be performed thus enabling our office to provide the best service possible.

First, make sure you bring your prescription the day of your examination. In order to be more comfortable, you may want to wear clothes that are loose, warm and without zippers or metal buttons. Before you enter the MR suite you will be asked to remove all jewelry (including all piercings) and empty your pockets. For your convenience, you may want to remove these items prior to your arrival. If you require specific instructions regarding your procedure our staff will provide the additional information when you schedule or a staff member will contact you personally. Please inform our office if you have a cardiac pacemaker, cardiac stents, aneurysm clips, or pregnant.

MR images are formed by the computer processing signals that are emitted by body tissue. The MR equipment is performed in a specially designed room. You will be asked to lie down on a padded table that will glide you into the scanning area. You can breathe normally and will notice a knocking or humming sound during the imaging process. During your MR procedure you will need to be as still as possible to ensure the highest imaging quality possible. Depending on the examination being performed, you may require a contrast injection or be given additional instructions by the technologist.

The technologist performing the exam is in constant communication with you during your procedure. The MR equipment has an intercom system for patient and technologist communication. The technologist will communicate with you when the MR machine is not acquiring your images. The technologist will request that you please not talk during the acquisition periods of the imaging process because it can interfere with image quality.

There is no conclusive information documenting the safety of imaging pregnant women; therefore, MR examinations are not typically performed on pregnant women. If a MR is medically necessary, please consult your physician to discuss the risks versus the benefits of the procedure.

You will need to stay as still as possible during the procedure. MR is very sensitive to even the slightest movements; therefore, you will not be able to move during the actual acquisition of the imaging process. Additionally, you will not be able to make any adjustments to the body part being imaged after the technologist has positioned you. Before moving, ask the technologist if you can make a slight adjustment, such as adjusting your arms or legs, in order to make yourself more comfortable during the procedure.

You may bring a friend or relative into the MR suite during your procedure to make you feel more comfortable. Prior to entering the MR suite, all individuals MUST be screened for entry. The friend or relative will also be asked medical screening questions to ensure their safety prior to them being able accompany you during your procedure. Each individual will also be checked for metal items such as hairpins, watches, hearing aids, credit cards etc. on their person prior to entry.

MR machines make different types of noises. The noise can range from a faint humming to a loud knocking sound. The technologist will provide you with earplugs to increase your comfort during the procedure. Some MR machines are equipped with music that you can enjoy during your procedure. Ask the technologist if this option is available.

Certain MR procedures require a contrast injection. The contrast agent is called Gadolinium and is given when your physician or our radiologist determines it is diagnostically necessary. Contrast is used to make specific organs, blood vessels or certain type of tissue stand out or differentiate itself from other organs, vessels or tissues. The contrast is used to provide you with the most complete examination possible.

The Open MR is designed for larger or claustrophobic individuals. An Open MR machine generally is unobstructed or open on at least three sides. Generally, Open MR procedures have a longer imaging time compared to the same procedure on a High-Field machine.