Advanced Medical Imaging Procedures

MRA – Screening of the Vessels of the Brain

Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) uses a strong magnetic field and radiofrequency waves to image the blood vessels in the brain, commonly referred to as Circle of Willis, without the use of x-rays. MRA is an advanced technique used to screen for diseases and is unique because it does not involve the use of ionizing radiation.

What are some common uses of the MRI procedure?

MRA is used to detect aneurysms and evaluate strokes.

MRI Brain Screening indicators:

• Chronic Headaches
• Dizziness
• Blurred Vision
• Speech Difficulty
• Ringing in the Ears

Risk factors: History of any of the following conditions:

• High Blood Pressure
• Smoking
• Diabetes
• Heart Disease
• Atherosclerosis (hardening of the arteries)
• Family History of Strokes

What preparations are required for an MRA?

Typically little or no preparation is required. However we request that you wear comfortable loose clothing without any metal zippers and remove jewelry, keys, coins, credit cards and dentures before the exam.

Since many cosmetics may contain metallic powders, it is advisable not to wear eyeliner for MRI exams of the head.

What happens during the MRA scanning procedure?

The technologist will make you comfortable and assist you on the table. You will hear a variety of noises during your MRA exam, which is normal. The technologist will provide a headset that will allow you to listen to music during your examination. The entire scanning only takes approximately 15 minutes with no exposure to radiation.

Why are MRIs so noisy?

The noise is related to the scanner producing and receiving radio waves that are used to produce the MRI images.

Who should not have an MRA?

• Patients that have a history of the following may not undergo MRI:
• Pacemakers
• Implanted Insulin Pumps
• Aneurysm Clips
• Some Internal Ear Implants

Please inform the radiologist and technologist if you have a history of surgical implants or if you are pregnant.

Who reads the exam and what if an abnormality is found on my MRA?

A radiologist will interpret your scan. If the scan is abnormal, you will be referred to your physician for further consultation. Sometimes a more extensive MRI study with contrast will be required.

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MRI – Screening of the Spine

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses a strong magnetic field and radiofrequency waves to image the spinal anatomy, spinal cord and soft tissues without the use of x-rays. MRI is the most advanced techniques and is unique because it does not involve the use of ionizing radiation.

What are some common uses of the MRI procedure?

MRI is used to detect stenosis (spinal narrowing), herniated discs, fractures, tumors and plays a role in the diagnosis of back pain. It can be used to evaluate trauma or sources of pain.

MRI Spine Screening Indicators:

• Chronic Headaches
• Pain
• Numbness
• Speech Difficulty
• Decreased Range of Motion

Risk factors: History of any of the following conditions:

• Injury
• Cancer
• Heart Disease
• History of Osteoporosis

What preparations are required for a MRI?

Typically little or no preparation is required. However we request that you wear comfortable loose clothing without any metal zippers and remove jewelry, keys, coins, credit cards and dentures before the exam. Since many cosmetics may contain metallic powders, it is advisable not to wear eyeliner for exams of the head.

What happens during the MRI scanning procedure?

The technologist will make you comfortable and assist you on the table. You will hear a variety of noises during your MRI exam, which is normal. The technologist will provide a headset that will allow you to listen to music during your examination. The entire scanning only takes approximately 15 minutes with no exposure to radiation.

Why are MRIs so noisy?

The noise is related to the scanner producing and receiving radio waves that are used to produce the MRI images.

Who should not have an MRI?

• Patients that have a history of the following may not undergo MRI:
• Pacemakers
• Implanted Insulin Pumps
• Aneurysm Clips
• Some Internal Ear Implants
• Please inform the radiologist and technologist if you have a history of surgical implants or if you are pregnant.

Who reads the exam and what if an abnormality is found on my MRI?

A radiologist will interpret your scan. If the scan is abnormal, you will be referred to your physician for further consultation. Sometimes a more extensive MRI study with contrast will be required.