MRI – MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING

Imaging Associates of Providence is proud to have brought the power of 3T MRI scanning to Alaska. This MRI produces detailed pictures of your organs and tissues with unprecedented detail and clarity. All, while you lay comfortably on a table listening to your favorite music. Our experienced MRI technologist will talk you through the procedure to make sure you’re comfortable and to ensure we get the best possible images for you and your doctor. For larger or more claustrophobic patients, IAP offers short, ultra-short and open MRI options at our various locations.

How do MRIs work?

An MRI produces extremely precise pictures without radiation. It works by using a strong magnet to align your body’s hydrogen atom, then uses radio waves and an advanced computer system to identify and map your body’s tissues. The stronger the magnet, the clearer the image. (Please note that our 3-tesla strength MRI is available only at our South Anchorage clinic. Our Mat-Su clinic features a high field 1.5-tesla short bore MRI with a large opening that accommodates patients up to 500 pounds.)

How do I prepare for my MRI?

Usually there are no special preparations or diet instructions prior to your MRI exam. However, some studies require that you have no food or drink (including water) 4 hours prior to the exam, so be sure to check your patient instructions. You should continue medications prescribed by your doctor unless informed otherwise. You may want to avoid drinking coffee or other caffeinated beverages prior to scanning so you’re able to lie quietly for the duration of the exam. Because no metal is allowed in the MRI room, it’s best not to wear makeup, which often contains metallic particles.

Please inform us, or your doctor, ahead of time if you have any of the following that may prevent you from undergoing an MRI exam:

» Pacemaker/Defibrillator
» History of working with metal
» Brain aneurysm clips
» History of injury during military service
» Metallic plates, pins, or other implants

What should I expect during my MRI?

You may be asked to change into a hospital gown or a pair of our comfy sweat pants or scrubs to eliminate the chance of any metal or artifacts on your clothing. Any metal such as earrings, eyeglasses, or hairpins will all need to be removed. Always inform their technologist if there is any possibility of your being pregnant.

In the MRI room, you’ll lie on the cushioned table that will slide into the tube-shaped scanner. We’ll set you up with special non-metallic headphones so you can listen to your favorite radio station and listen to any instructions the technologist may have for you. Your technologist will watch you through an observation window and will be able to communicate with you at all times.

Inside the scanner, you’ll hear loud tapping noises that change with the various imaging sequences. Remaining still during these noises is very important in order to obtain clear images.

When scanning is complete, the technologist will return to help you off the table. Typical exams take about 30 to 60 minutes.

What about contrast injections?

Some exams require an injection of a contrast agent to make some abnormalities easier to see. MRI contrast is an organically bound gadolinium material. Be sure to tell your technologist if you’ve had a reaction to MRI contrast, if you are particularly sensitive to medications, or if you have any history of kidney disease.

How do I get the results?

After your exam, the images will be evaluated by one of our board-certified radiologists and a preliminary report will be immediately faxed to your doctor. The official written report will be sent to your doctor within 24 hours. Your doctor can then discuss the results with you in detail.

Who do I call with questions?

Questions about the results of your exam should be directed to your primary healthcare provider. For any other questions or concerns, please feel free to call us directly. (Find our numbers here.)