MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. This medical imaging technique uses powerful magnetic-field-emitting radio waves to create detailed pictures of areas inside your body. The MRI produces soft-tissue images and is used to distinguish normal, healthy soft-tissue from diseased tissue.
Depending on what information your doctor needs, an MRI scan may require the use of a contrast agent, a medical substance used to contrast structures or fluids in the body. This contrast helps physicians see specific structures in your body more clearly.
Northside Hospital uses the most powerful MRI scanner available to patients today. The magnet strength is the key to image clarity. The stronger the magnet, the more precise the image.
The 3T is incredibly patient-friendly and is designed to make scans easier for obese patients and those who may experience anxiety.
MRI Services at Northside Hospital include:
Neurological exams of the:
Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) exams of the:
Musculoskeletal exams of the following:
Other exams:
No special preparation is needed before the exam unless your doctor has given you other instructions. You will be asked to complete a safety screening form and answer questions about your medical history. Please wear loose clothing without zippers or metallic parts.
Once you have arrived at a Northside Hospital imaging location, you are asked to remove all metal objects and will be positioned on a special table by a technologist. The table will then slide into the MRI scanner. With the exception of head or neck scans, your head will remain outside the device.
For clear pictures, you are asked to hold very still and relax. In some cases, you are asked to hold your breath for short periods. Any movement, especially your head or back – even moving your jaw to talk – will seriously blur the pictures during the scan. While the machine is taking pictures, you will hear rapidly repeating, thumping noises coming from the scanner walls. For additional comfort, earplugs are provided. The entire exam ordinarily takes around 30 minutes to complete.
Be sure to let us know if any of the following applies to you or the person who accompanies you into the exam room:
Any metallic substance on your person can affect the quality of the diagnostic images. It can also cause discomfort or even injury to you when placed in the magnetic field.
A board-certified radiologist will study your examination and send the report to your doctor. Then your doctor will discuss the results with you.
To schedule an appointment at one of the Northside Hospital Gwinnett or Duluth locations, call 678-312-3444.
To schedule an appointment at a Northside Hospital Atlanta, Forsyth or Cherokee location, call 404-851-6577.