Open MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

MRI procedures are ordered on various parts of the body. There is no exposure to radiation, and the procedure is painless. An MRI utilizes magnetic fields and radio waves to generate a series of images, each of which shows a thin slice of the body. A computer then compiles the images into a 3-dimensional representation of the body. The radiologist can study these images from many different angles on the monitor. Occasionally, your physician may order the MRI to be done with contrast to better visualize a specific area. This contrast is in the form of a Gadolinium injection and has few, if any, side effects. The length of an MRI procedure can range from 30 minutes to 2 hours, depending upon the type of examination your physician has ordered. There is no preparation required for this procedure.

MRI procedures performed at Diagnostic Imaging of Milford include:

All Musculoskeletal Exams Female Pelvis Head and Neck Exams Liver

MRA Circle of Willis Pelvis – Bone and Soft Tissue Structures Prostate Spines

You cannot have an MRI procedure if you have:

A pacemaker Tens-units

Intracranial aneurysm clips Implanted drug infusion devices

Other risks:  You should inform your physician and Diagnostic Imaging of Milford if you have or have had:

Surgical staples Foreign metal objects in your eye Any other previous eye injury Ever worked with metal

Metal implants, pins or plates Shrapnel, bullets or bullet wounds Tattoos Intrauterine devices (IUD)

If you are claustrophobic:  Our MRI unit is “open” on 3 sides, decreasing the feeling of claustrophobia. If you are extremely claustrophobic, uncomfortable or anxious about having this procedure, your physician may order a mild sedative for you to take before the examination. If you do take a sedative of any kind, you must have someone accompany you to the office.

PREPARATION:

	You will be asked to fill out a questionnaire before your procedure can be done, so please arrive at the office a few minutes early.
	Your clothing cannot have any metal on it. You will not be allowed to wear jewelry, watches, etc. because of the magnet.

*It is important to inform our office if you have had previous MRI scans at another facility in order for our radiologist to compare these procedures. You may be asked to bring these films with you.*

Non-contrast MRI appointments are available one Saturday morning a month.

Download Open MRI Screening Form

Download Open MRI CPT Codes and Guidelines

Download Requisition Form