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Good health
health and allows you to uncover abnormalities in the formative stages, when they can be more easily managed or eliminated. |
MRI FAQ's
What do doctors learn from an MRI?Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a safe, painless way for doctors to get a clear look at your internal anatomy. In fact, a scan may be the only way your doctor can get diagnostic information without surgery. The technology produces sharp computerized images of internal body tissues that can’t be viewed through x-rays. Doctors can request an MRI image for your brain, your knee, your spine, or just about any part of your body that needs diagnosis. What can an MRI diagnose?Aneurysms, stenosis, occlusions, and carotid arteries in the head and neck. Diseases of the central nervous system, including spinal cord deterioration, tumors of the brain, and multiple sclerosis. Condition of the heart, liver, kidney adrenal glands, male and female pelvis, and abdominal blood vessels. Disorders of bones, knees, and joints. Condition of cartilage, ligaments, bone, muscle, fat and menisci. Shoulder disorders, including impingement syndrome and rotator cuff tears. What is an “Open” MRI?Open refers to the equipment, which has a large, non-confining opening. The patient lies on a table with equipment on one side and overhead. Having unobstructed space on three sides allows a pleasant, non-claustrophobic exam. Not being confined in a “tunnel” is much more comfortable for most patients. How do I schedule an MRI scan?Your doctor will decide if an MRI is needed to help diagnose your symptoms. The doctor’s staff will then notify us and schedule an appointment. We will verify your health insurance coverage and obtain pre-certification with your health insurance carrier if necessary. If you do not have health insurance, payment is expected at the time of service. Can a friend or family member be in the room with me during the exam?In most cases, yes. However, please advise our staff if the guest is pregnant or has anything metallic in the body. How long will the exam take?Most exams can be completed in 30 to 60 minutes. More time may be required if you need to be sedated, if you need a contrasting liquid, or if your doctor has ordered more than one scanning test. How should I prepare for the exam?There are no special preparations. You should eat normally and follow the normal dosing of your prescribed medications unless your doctor gives instructions to do otherwise. Dress in loose, comfortable clothes with no metal snaps, zippers, etc. Is it safe?For most people, the MRI is completely safe. However, in most cases, pregnant women should not have MRI scans. Please let the staff know if you are pregnant. MRI does not use any type of radiation, but does produce a powerful magnetic field. To assure that you will have no adverse effects from the magnetism, the staff needs to find out if you have any metal in your body. Please advise the staff if:
Is it OK for patients with dental fillings or braces to have an MRI?Yes. Your teeth will not be affected by the exam. Can I drive home after the MRI?Most patients do not require sedation and therefore are able to drive immediately after the exam. If you need a sedative to help you relax for the exam, please arrange for a friend or relative to drive you home. How long does it take for my physician to get the results of the examination?The radiologist will review and interpret your MRI examination upon completion. Within 24 hours, your physician will have a written report.
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A whole new way of 'looking' at your health
In less than 15 minutes, Cyrus Diagnostic Imaging uses a Philips ultra-fast Computer Tomography or CT scanner to create an internal 3-D image of your body. Immediately afterward, your images will be reviewed by a board certified radiologist. It's a process that combines cutting-edge technology with a generation of medical expertise to offer simple, fast and painless lifesaving examinations that can detect tumors, polyps, cancer, lung disease and heart disease long before symptoms appear. Cyrus Diagnostic Imaging puts you in control of your health, and is a safe diagnostic procedure. |