MRI FAQs
For more information on MRI, please visit the National Orthopedic Imaging Associates website.
MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. The images are created by using radio waves to transmit electromagnetic signals in a strong magnetic field. Because an MRI scan gives clear pictures of soft tissue structures near and around bone, it is often used to diagnose sports-related injuries. Depending on your injury and disorder, MRI scans are essential for your physician to make proper diagnosis of any orthopedic-related conditions.
When you arrive to Proliance Eastside MRI for your check in, you will be given an MRI Data Sheet to fill out. Before your exam, it is recommended you abstain from caffeine. You should also remove all hairpins, jewelry, eyeglasses and hearing aids. A change of patient scrubs will be provided for you to wear during your exam. Please let the staff of Eastside MRI know if there is a possibility you are pregnant or if you have any foreign bodies, such as a pacemaker, aneurysm clip, surgical clip, heart stents, medical implant, etc.
Before your MRI exam begins, Eastside’s staff will position you onto a sliding table, which moves into the MRI system opening where the magnetic field is created. While MRI sequences are performed you will hear tapping or clicking sounds during the exam. This sound indicates the magnetic field gradient coils are being switched on / off to measure the MRI signal reflecting from your body. If you need to communicate with the MRI technologist at any time during the procedure there is an intercom for communication.
Your MRI exam should take somewhere between fifteen to forty-five minutes, depending on how many images are needed. Some detailed studies may take longer. MRI subjects will be asked to remain still while the imaging sequences take place. Each imaging sequence lasts for only a minute or two at a time.
Depending on the part of the body being examined, a contrast agent may be used to enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels. Eastside MRI’s technologist may use a small needle to inject the contrast agent into veins in the arm or hand.
Eastside Imaging / Evergreen Orthopedic Center provide imaging for the following joints, tissues and areas of the body:
- Foot and Ankle
- Brain
- Chest
- Elbow
- Hand and Finger
- Hip
- Knee
- Nasopharynx
- Pelvis / Lower Abdomen
- Shoulder
- Spine
- Wrist
