MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) Services
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a test that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to make pictures of organs and structures inside the body. In many cases MRI gives different information about structures in the body than can be seen with an X-ray, ultrasound, or computed tomography (CT) scan. MRI also may show problems that cannot be seen with other imaging methods.
MRI does not use radiation to make its pictures and there are no known side effects from this imaging modality.
MRI studies include
Head
- Brain
- IACs
- Orbits
- Pituitary
Abdomen
- Liver
- Pancreas
- Adrenal Glands/Kidneys
- MRCP
Pelvis
- Bone
- Female / Gynecological
Neck
- Soft tissue Neck
- Brachial Plexus
Spine
- Cervical Spine
- Thoracic Spine
- Lumbar Spine
- Sacrum
- SI (Sacroiliac) Joints
Upper Extremity
- Shoulder
- Humerus
- Elbow
- Forearm
- Wrist
- Hand/Fingers
Lower Extremity
- Hip
- Femur
- Knee
- Tibia / Fibula
- Knee
- Ankle
- Foot/Toes
Vascular Studies (MRA/MRV)
- Head / Intracranial
MRA (Arterial) - Neck
MRA Carotids/Vertebrals
Where is the MRI Department Located?
MRI scans are performed at Jackson Hospital in the Imaging Services department.
Vascular Studies: MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography)
What is an MRA and what does it do?
MRA is useful in examining the blood vessels of the:
- Head/Intracranial
- Neck (Carotids/ Vertebrals)
MRA exams may be performed with or without contrast material.
Who performs the test?
The exam itself is performed by a Radiologic Technologist RT (R). These technologists are nationally registered with the A.R.R.T. (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) and licensed through the state of Florida in the use of diagnostic equipment and procedures. Also, the technologist performing your MRI procedure has additional MRI specific training.
Where does it take place?
MRI scans are performed at Jackson Hospital in the Imaging Services department.
How long does it take?
Average person takes about 15-30 minutes.
What you can do to make it a success?
Because the MRI machine is a very strong magnet, it is important to let your doctor know if you have any of the following:
- Pacemaker
- Defibrillator
- Aneurysm Clips
- Stents
- Any other metallic or electronic implant
- If you have a card that explains the type of implant/prosthesis that you have, please bring it with you on the day of your test.
- If you are pregnant, let your doctor know.
It is helpful to wear clothing with no metal or embellishments on them. Also, please do not wear jewelry or hair accessories of any kind as these will have to be removed before entering the MRI scan room.
You may be asked to change into a hospital gown for better imaging.
A locker for your clothing and belongings will be provided.
What to do before your exam?
There is no preparation for this MRI study. Eat normally and take your medications as prescribed.
What happens during your exam?
You will lie down on the MRI table.
Depending on which body part is to be imaged; a device called a “coil” may be placed around the body part.
The MRI machine is quite loud so you will be given headphones to listen to the radio. Or, if you prefer, earplugs can be provided instead.
You will then be positioned inside the MRI scanner. Once the scan starts, it is very important that you remain completely still as motion will cause the images to be blurry and non-diagnostic. Blurry images will have to be repeated which will lengthen your exam time.
If your test is ordered “with contrast” or requires contrast, you will have an IV started in which the technologist will inject the contrast through during that portion of the study.
What to do after your exam?
The Radiologist will review your exam and relay his findings to your physician. This usually takes 1-2 days. In the case of an emergency or life threatening results, you physician will be contacted right away and you will probably be asked to stay with us until he or she is spoken with.
MRI of the Spine (Cervical/Thoracic/Lumbar/Sacrum/Sacroiliac Joints)
What is an MRI of the Spine and what does it do?
An MRI of the spine is done to:
- assess the spinal anatomy and alignment.
- detect congenital anomalies of vertebrae or the spinal cord.
- assess problems with intervertebral disk disease (degenerated, bulging, or herniated) and intervertebral joint disease, both frequent causes of severe lower back pain and sciatica (back pain radiating into a leg).
- assess compression of spinal cord and nerves.
- help plan spinal surgical procedures, such as decompression of a pinched nerve or spinal fusion.
- monitor changes in the spine after an operation, such as scarring or infection.
- explore other possible causes of back pain (compression fracture, for example).
- image spinal infection or tumors that arise in, or have spread to, the spine.
- assess inflammation of the spinal cord or nerves.
An MRI may be done using contrast material to see abnormal tissue more clearly. The contrast material also may help tell the difference between old surgical scars and a new disease or injury.
Who performs the test?
The exam itself is performed by a Radiologic Technologist RT (R). These technologists are nationally registered with the A.R.R.T. (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) and licensed through the state of Florida in the use of diagnostic equipment and procedures. Also, the technologist performing your MRI procedure has additional MRI specific training.
Where does it take place?
MRI scans are performed at Jackson Hospital in the Imaging Services department.
How long does it take?
Average person takes 30 minutes to an hour
What you can do to make it a success?
Because the MRI machine is a very strong magnet, it is important to let your doctor know if you have any of the following:
- Pacemaker
- Defibrillator
- Aneurysm Clips
- Stents
- Any other metallic or electronic implant
- If you have a card that explains the type of implant/prosthesis that you have, please bring it with you on the day of your test.
- If you are pregnant, let your doctor know.
It is helpful to wear clothing with no metal or embellishments on them. Also, please do not wear jewelry or hair accessories of any kind as these will have to be removed before entering the MRI scan room.
You may be asked to change into a hospital gown for better imaging.
A locker for your clothing and belongings will be provided.
What to do before your exam?
There is no preparation for this MRI study. Eat normally and take your medications as prescribed.
What happens during your exam?
You will lie down on the MRI table.
Depending on which body part is to be imaged; a device called a “coil” may be placed around the body part.
The MRI machine is quite loud so you will be given headphones to listen to the radio. Or, if you prefer, earplugs can be provided instead.
You will then be positioned inside the MRI scanner. Once the scan starts, it is very important that you remain completely still as motion will cause the images to be blurry and non-diagnostic. Blurry images will have to be repeated which will lengthen your exam time.
If your test is ordered “with contrast”, you will have an IV started in which the technologist will inject the contrast through during that portion of the study.
What to do after your exam?
The Radiologist will review your exam and relay his findings to your physician. This usually takes 1-2 days. In the case of an emergency or life threatening results, you physician will be contacted right away and you will probably be asked to stay with us until he or she is spoken with.
Unless you have other tests scheduled, you may resume your previous diet if you were following special diet instructions.
MRI of the Pelvis
What is a MRI of the Pelvis and what does it do?
A pelvis MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan is a imaging test that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create pictures of the area between the hip bones. This part of the body is called the pelvic area.
The pelvic area contains:
- The pelvic bones
- In women, it includes the womb (uterus), cervix, ovaries, and fallopian tubes.
The pelvic MRI can help to determine the presence of fractures, cysts, tumors and other pathologies.
Who performs the test?
The exam itself is performed by a Radiologic Technologist RT (R). These technologists are nationally registered with the A.R.R.T. (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) and licensed through the state of Florida in the use of diagnostic equipment and procedures. Also, the technologist performing your MRI procedure has additional MRI-specific training.
Where does it take place?
MRI scans are performed at Jackson Hospital in the hospital Imaging Services department.
How long does it take?
Average person takes 30 minutes to an hour
What you can do to make it a success?
Because the MRI machine is a very strong magnet, it is important to let your doctor know if you have any of the following:
- Pacemaker
- Defibrillator
- Aneurysm Clips
- Stents
- Any other metallic or electronic implant
- If you have a card that explains the type of implant/prosthesis that you have, please bring it with you on the day of your test.
- If you are pregnant, let your doctor know.
It is helpful to wear clothing with no metal or embellishments on them. Also, please do not wear jewelry or hair accessories of any kind as these will have to be removed before entering the MRI scan room.
You may be asked to change into a hospital gown for better imaging.
A locker for your clothing and belongings will be provided.
What happens during your exam?
You will lie down on the MRI table.
Depending on which body part is to be imaged; a device called a “coil” may be placed around the body part.
The MRI machine is quite loud so you will be given headphones to listen to the radio. Or, if you prefer, earplugs can be provided instead.
You will then be positioned inside the MRI scanner. Once the scan starts, it is very important that you remain completely still as motion will cause the images to be blurry and non-diagnostic. Blurry images will have to be repeated which will lengthen your exam time.
If your test is ordered “with contrast”, you will have an IV started in which the technologist will inject the contrast through during that portion of the study.
What to do after your exam?
The Radiologist will review your exam and relay his findings to your physician. This usually takes 1-2 days. In the case of an emergency or life threatening results, you physician will be contacted right away and you will probably be asked to stay with us until he or she is spoken with.
Unless you have other tests scheduled, you may resume your previous diet if you were following special diet instructions.
MRI of the Neck (Soft Tissue Neck/Brachial Plexus)
What is an MRI of the Neck and what does it do?
Brachial Plexus MRI
A brachial plexus MRI exam will be ordered when a physician wants a detailed look at the nerves that start in the cervical spine and go into the right or left arm.
Soft Tissue Neck MRI
A physician may order this type of MRI if they want to see all the soft tissues from the bottom of your eyes to the top of your chest.
Who performs the test?
The exam itself is performed by a Radiologic Technologist RT (R). These technologists are nationally registered with the A.R.R.T. (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) and licensed through the state of Florida in the use of diagnostic equipment and procedures. Also, the technologist performing your MRI procedure has additional MRI specific training.
Where does it take place?
MRI scans are performed at Jackson Hospital in the Imaging Services department.
How long does it take?
Average person takes 30 minutes to an hour.
What you can do to make it a success?
Because the MRI machine is a very strong magnet, it is important to let your doctor know if you have any of the following:
- Pacemaker
- Defibrillator
- Aneurysm Clips
- Stents
- Any other metallic or electronic implant
- If you have a card that explains the type of implant/prosthesis that you have, please bring it with you on the day of your test.
- If you are pregnant, let your doctor know.
It is helpful to wear clothing with no metal or embellishments on them. Also, please do not wear jewelry or hair accessories of any kind as these will have to be removed before entering the MRI scan room.
You may be asked to change into a hospital gown for better imaging.
A locker for your clothing and belongings will be provided.
What to do before your exam?
There is no preparation for this MRI study. Eat normally and take your medications as prescribed.
What happens during your exam?
You will lie down on the MRI table.
Depending on which body part is to be imaged; a device called a “coil” may be placed around the body part.
The MRI machine is quite loud so you will be given headphones to listen to the radio. Or, if you prefer, earplugs can be provided instead.
You will then be positioned inside the MRI scanner. Once the scan starts, it is very important that you remain completely still as motion will cause the images to be blurry and non-diagnostic. Blurry images will have to be repeated which will lengthen your exam time.
If your test is ordered “with contrast”, you will have an IV started in which the technologist will inject the contrast through during that portion of the study.
What to do after your exam?
The Radiologist will review your exam and relay his findings to your physician. This usually takes 1-2 days. In the case of an emergency or life-threatening results, your physician will be contacted right away and you will probably be asked to stay with us until he or she is spoken with.
Unless you have other tests scheduled, you may resume your previous diet if you were following special diet instructions.
MRI of the Lower Extremity (Hip, Femur, Knee, Tibia/Fibula, Ankle, Foot/Toes)
What is an MRI of the Lower Extremity and what does it do?
An MRI of the Lower Extremity is useful in examining:
- Degenerative disorders such as arthritis
- Labral or meniscus tears
- Traumas involving ligaments and tendons
- Swelling or bleeding in the tissues in and around the joints
- Fractures
- Sports or work-related injuries cause d by repeated strain, vibration or forceful impact
- Infections (such as osteomyelitis)
- Tumors (primary tumors and metastasis) involving bones and joints
Who performs the test?
The exam itself is performed by a Radiologic Technologist RT (R). These technologists are nationally registered with the A.R.R.T. (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) and licensed through the state of Florida in the use of diagnostic equipment and procedures. Also, the technologist performing your MRI procedure has additional MRI specific training.
***If you are having an MRI Arthrogram, there will be an injection into the joint space of interest prior to your MRI. This is performed by the radiologist.
Where does it take place?
MRI scans are performed at Jackson Hospital in the Imaging Services department.
How long does it take?
Average person takes 30 minutes to an hour
What you can do to make it a success?
Because the MRI machine is a very strong magnet, it is important to let your doctor know if you have any of the following:
- Pacemaker
- Defibrillator
- Aneurysm Clips
- Stents
- Any other metallic or electronic implant
- If you have a card that explains the type of implant/prosthesis that you have, please bring it with you on the day of your test.
- If you are pregnant, let your doctor know.
It is helpful to wear clothing with no metal or embellishments on them. Also, please do not wear jewelry or hair accessories of any kind as these will have to be removed before entering the MRI scan room.
You may be asked to change into a hospital gown for better imaging.
A locker for your clothing and belongings will be provided.
*** If you are having an MRI Arthrogram, please bring someone with you the day of your MRI exam to drive you home.
What to do before your exam?
There is no preparation for this MRI study. Eat normally and take your medications as prescribed.
What happens during your exam?
If your study was ordered as an MRI Arthrogram, you will have an injection of contrast (gadolinium) into the joint space prior to having your MRI. This procedure is done in the Imaging Services department and is performed by the radiologist (see JOINT ARTHROGRAMS in SPECIAL PROCEDURES section). Your MRI will follow.
For the MRI:
You will lie down on the MRI table.
Depending on which body part is to be imaged; a device called a “coil” may be placed around the body part.
The MRI machine is quite loud so you will be given headphones to listen to the radio. Or, if you prefer, earplugs can be provided instead.
You will then be positioned inside the MRI scanner. Once the scan starts, it is very important that you remain completely still as motion will cause the images to be blurry and non-diagnostic. Blurry images will have to be repeated which will lengthen your exam time.
If your test is ordered “with contrast”, you will have an IV started in which the technologist will inject the contrast through during that portion of the study.
What to do after your exam?
The Radiologist will review your exam and relay his findings to your physician. This usually takes 1-2 days. In the case of an emergency or life-threatening results, your physician will be contacted right away and you will probably be asked to stay with us until he or she is spoken with.
MRI of the Head (Brain, IACs, Orbits, Pituitary)
MRI of the Head (Brain, IACs, Orbits, Pituitary)
These studies image the Brain, the Nerves in the Ear, the Eye and Optic Nerve and/or Pituitary Gland (a small gland in the middle of the brain.
These studies help to detect abnormalities such as cysts, tumors, MS (Multiple Sclerosis), seizure, stroke and other pathologies.
Who performs the test?
The exam itself is performed by a Radiologic Technologist RT (R). These technologists are nationally registered with the A.R.R.T. (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) and licensed through the state of Florida in the use of diagnostic equipment and procedures. Also, the technologist performing your MRI procedure has additional MRI specific training and registration.
Where does it take place?
MRI scans are performed in the hospital Imaging Services department.
How long does it take?
Average person takes 30 minutes to an hour
What you can do to make it a success?
Because the MRI machine is a very strong magnet, it is important to let your doctor know if you have any of the following:
- Pacemaker
- Defibrillator
- Aneurysm Clips
- Stents
- Any other metallic or electronic implant
- If you have a card that explains the type of implant/prosthesis that you have, please bring it with you on the day of your test.
- If you are pregnant, let your doctor know.
It is helpful to wear clothing with no metal or embellishments on them. Also, please do not wear jewelry or hair accessories of any kind as these will have to be removed before entering the MRI scan room.
You may be asked to change into a hospital gown for better imaging.
A locker for your clothing and belongings will be provided.
What to do before your exam?
There is no preparation for these MRI studies. Eat as usual and take your medications as prescribed.
What happens during your exam?
You will lie down on the MRI table.
Depending on which body part is to be imaged; a device called a “coil” may be placed around the body part.
The MRI machine is quite loud so you will be given headphones to listen to the radio. Or, if you prefer, earplugs can be provided instead.
You will then be positioned inside the MRI scanner. Once the scan starts, it is very important that you remain completely still as motion will cause the images to be blurry and non-diagnostic. Blurry images will have to be repeated which will lengthen your exam time.
If your test is ordered “with contrast”, you will have an IV started in which the technologist will inject the contrast through during that portion of the study.
What to do after your exam?
The Radiologist will review your exam and relay his findings to your physician. This usually takes 1-2 days. In the case of an emergency or life threatening results, you physician will be contacted right away and you will probably be asked to stay with us until he or she is spoken with.
Unless you have other tests scheduled, you may resume your previous diet if you were following special diet instructions.
MRI of the Abdomen (Kidneys/Adrenal Glands/Liver/Pancreas/MRCP)
What is an MRI of the Abdomen and what does it do?
This test may be used to diagnose or evaluate:
- Cancer, tumors, cysts, and/or masses.
- Blood flow in the abdomen
- Blood vessels in the abdomen
- The cause of abdominal pain or swelling
- The cause of abnormal blood test results, such as liver or kidney problems
- Lymph nodes in the abdomen
- Visualization of gallbladder, biliary, and pancreatic ducts
MRI can distinguish tumors from normal tissues and can help the doctor determine the tumor’s size, severity, and spread.
(MRCP) Magnetic resonance cholangiopancreatography is a medical imaging technique that uses magnetic resonance imaging to visualize the biliary and pancreatic ducts in a non-invasive manner. This procedure can be used to determine if gallstones are lodged in any of the ducts surrounding the gallbladder.
Who performs the test?
The exam is performed by a Radiologic Technologist RT (R). These technologists are nationally registered with the A.R.R.T. (American Registry of Radiologic Technologists) and licensed through the state of Florida in the use of diagnostic equipment and procedures. Also, the technologist performing your MRI procedure has additional MRI-specific training.
Where does it take place?
MRI scans are performed at Jackson Hospital in the Imaging Services department.
How long does it take?
Average person takes 30 minutes to an hour.
What you can do to make it a success?
Because the MRI machine is a very strong magnet, it is important to let your doctor know if you have any of the following:
- Pacemaker
- Defibrillator
- Aneurysm Clips
- Stents
- Any other metallic or electronic implant
- If you have a card that explains the type of implant/prosthesis that you have, please bring it with you on the day of your test.
- If you are pregnant, let your doctor know.
It is helpful to wear clothing with no metal or embellishments on them. Also, please do not wear jewelry or hair accessories of any kind as these will have to be removed before entering the MRI scan room.
You may be asked to change into a hospital gown for better imaging.
A locker for your clothing and belongings will be provided.
What to do before your exam?
You must be NPO (nothing to eat or drink) for at least 8 hours prior to having an abdominal MRI. You may take your medications with only a few sips of water.
What happens during your exam?
You will lie down on the MRI table.
Depending on which body part is to be imaged; a device called a “coil” may be placed around the body part.
The MRI machine is quite loud so you will be given headphones to listen to the radio. Or, if you prefer, earplugs can be provided instead.
You will then be positioned inside the MRI scanner. Once the scan starts, it is very important that you remain completely still as motion will cause the images to be blurry and non-diagnostic. Blurry images will have to be repeated which will lengthen your exam time.
If your test is ordered “with contrast”, you will have an IV started in which the technologist will inject the contrast through during that portion of the study.
What to do after your exam?
The Radiologist will review your exam and relay his findings to your physician. This usually takes 1-2 days. In the case of an emergency or life-threatening results, your physician will be contacted right away and you will probably be asked to stay with us until he or she is spoken with.
Unless you have other tests scheduled, you may resume your previous diet if you were following special diet instructions.