MRI

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is safe, painless, and potentially one of the most accurate technologies available to obtain images of the body.   A powerful 1.5 Tesla magnet is used in conjunction with radio waves and a sophisticated computer system to generate detailed images of organs, soft tissues, bone and virtually all other internal body structures, without ionizing radiation (x-rays).

MRI is frequently used to study muscles, joints, the brain and spine, the abdomen, pelvis, and chest.  A special type of MRI called Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) is used to study blood vessels.

Cypress Imaging couples MRI technology with our radiologists’ expertise to provide this service.

Prepare for Your Visit

You should wear loose, comfortable clothing to your MRI appointment.

Because MRI uses a strong magnetic field which is always on, it is best to leave metal objects such as jewelry, watches, pens, hairpins, and pocketknives at home.  Likewise, it is best not to bring electronic devices or credit cards, which are likely to be damaged by the magnetic field if taken into the exam room.

Please notify your physician or our office prior to your exam if you have a pacemaker, artificial heart valve or any other metal inside your body.

During Your Visit

You will be screened to ensure that you don’t have any items which could be damaged or become dangerous when exposed to the magnetic field of the MRI. You will be asked to remove and store eyeglasses, hearing aids, removable dental work, jewelry, wallets, and electronic devices. You may be asked to wear a gown to prevent any magnetic interference with buckles or zippers.

After screening, you will be positioned on a cushioned table that will slide into the MRI machine.   Depending on the type of exam ordered a special coil may be placed around or adjacent to the body part being studied.  In some cases, a contrast agent may be injected through an IV.

A technologist will monitor the exam at all times and a speaker system keeps you in touch with the technologist.

A typical MRI at Cypress Imaging takes 30 – 45 minutes.

After Your Visit

One of our Radiologists will interpret the exam and report the findings to your physician. Your physician will contact you to discuss the results of your exam.