Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a cutting-edge diagnostic imaging technique that uses a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer to produce detailed images of the structure inside the body. The images of the structure help healthcare providers evaluate, diagnose, and monitor a wide range of health conditions.
Let’s discuss the working of MRI and what you can expect during the procedure.
How Does MRI Work?
MRI scanner works on the principle of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). According to NMR theory, certain atomic nuclei, let’s say hydrogen, behave like a tiny magnet when placed in a strong magnetic field.
It passes an electric current through coiled wires to create a temporary magnetic field in the body. The scanner also includes a transmitter/receiver that sends and receives the radio wave signals. The computer attached to the scanner uses these signals to create a detailed and clear image of the scanned area.
What To Expect During Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scan?
Before an MRI scan, you will be asked to follow some specific instructions. You may be asked to remove metal objects and implanted devices as the strong magnetic field of the MRI may cause the implanted devices to malfunction. It’s also advised to leave all the jewelry and other metal accessories at home. If you are claustrophobic, inform your doctor so that they can arrange an open MRI scan for you.
For a standard MRI scan, you’ll lie on a table that slides into big, circular magnets. A trained technician will watch over you from another room and talk to you to help you stay calm. During the scan, the machine makes loud noises, like tapping and thumping, as the magnetic field is created, and pulses of radio waves are sent from the scanner. To block the noise, you will get a headset or earplugs.
It’s important to stay still during the scan as the movements can affect the quality of the scan. In some cases, a contrast dye is administered into the patient’s body orally or through an IV line to enhance the visualization of the specific details of the scanned area.
Once the scan is complete, the table will slide out of the magnets. The entire scanning procedure will take anywhere between 30 to 50 minutes.
After the scan, you might feel nausea, headache, or pain at the site of injection if you received contrast material for your MRI. If you received sedative drugs, you will be allowed to go home once the effect of the medicine goes off.
MRI in the Bronx, NY
If you are in search of a reputable diagnostic facility staffed with highly trained, skilled, and compassionate radiographers and radiologists, look no further than Starling Diagnostics. At our facility, we use 3T MRI technology that allows for precise and quick detection of the subtlest abnormalities in the scanned area. We also have an open MRI scanner for our patients who cannot undergo traditional scans.
In addition to 3T MRI, we also perform DEXA bone scans, ultrasound, digital X-rays, CT scans, mammography, and much more.
To schedule your MRI with us, fill out our online appointment request form or call us at (718) 319-1610.
