This imaging study uses a powerful magnet, radiofrequency pulses and special software to create images of internal structures. It offers more detail than X-rays and CT scans, making it especially useful for assessing tissue behind your bones. In some cases, an MRI with contrast is necessary. It involves a special dye that makes it easier to view the details of certain organs.

We have 3 Tesla (3T) magnetic resonance imaging units offering twice the power and significantly better image resolution than older models. This enhanced technology enables us to detect subtle differences between healthy and diseased tissue. 

The magnetic resonance imaging unit is a large metal tube with a padded table that slides into it. As the scan starts, you may hear a thumping or humming sound. Having this type of noise close to your head can be worrisome, but you are not in any danger. Hearing protection is available, and you are welcome to bring music to help you feel more at ease.

Here is additional information about what to expect:

• Clothing and accessories: Metal items like zippers, jewelry, watches, hearing aids and belt buckles are not allowed near MRI units. Please leave these items at home.

• Food and medications: Eat and take medication as you usually would unless we tell you otherwise.

• MRIs for children: Dress your child in comfortable clothing without zippers or snaps. Bring a favorite soft toy or blanket to provide comfort during your child’s MRI.

• Billing: You will receive two bills. One is from the facility, and the other is for the radiologist who reads the results. Check with your insurance for specific billing charges to expect.

Your care team may order an MRI when we can’t pinpoint a cause for your symptoms using other imaging tests. Conditions we assess with magnetic resonance imaging include:

MRIs help us detect and monitor conditions such as multiple sclerosis, stroke, hydrocephalus or spinal cord injuries.

You may benefit from an MRI if doctors need to confirm or rule out cartilage injuries, a slipped disc in your back or a torn ligament.

We use MRI to assess heart structures and function. It can help us pinpoint the cause of chest pain or unexplained fainting.

An MRI helps us detect issues in your digestive tract, including inflammation, obstructions, blood clots, organ damage and gallstones.

An MRI helps us determine which internal structures are affected and how severe an injury is if you experience a bad fall, collision or other trauma.

MRI helps detect growths in the brain, spinal cord, breast, cervix, bladder and other body parts. It shows how deep into the tissue a tumor has grown.

MRI helps determine whether atypical blood vessel formations are cosmetic concerns or something requiring treatment.