MRI

What is a Magnetic Resonance Image (MRI)?
A MRI scanner is a giant magnet. Patients sit on a table that glides through the scanner via a large opening. Using magnetic fields, radio waves and computers, the MRI generates images of the soft tissues within the body. This non-invasive test, which uses no x-radiation, is painless and used for many parts of the body. Some of the most common uses are for brain disorders, traumatic injuries, eye abnormalities, spine diseases, tumor detection, liver and other abdominal disease, knee and shoulder injuries, musculoskeletal disorders, facial/neck abnormalities, infection, cardiac malformations and blood flow and vessel disorders.

MRI Facts
MR has become a primary imaging system for early diagnosis of conditions and diseases of the brain, spinal cord, abdomen and the musculoskeletal system. The size of the MRI opening is determined by the strength of the magnetic field. The space differences within the “low field open MRI” and Olathe Medical Center’s (OMC) “high field short bore (short tunnel)” scanners have evolved so now they are similar in size. The advantages of the OMC scanners are:

• Offers the latest in technology.
• The scanners at OMC are capable of performing the advanced neurological imaging demanded by physicians today.
• OMC scanners meet the challenge of performing the non-invasive, advanced blood vessel studies that are recommended for diagnosing blocked arteries in the brain, neck, kidneys and the legs.
• Best of all . . . the MRI scanners at OMC are 50% faster than any open MRI.

Worried, Anxious?
Please do not decide on where to have a MRI scan because of worry or anxiety. To ensure success, base your decision on quality, experience and convenience. Ask for high field short bore MR scanner. At Olathe Medical Center, the shorter tunnels available with our MRI scanners provide quality and comfort in a less threatening environment.

At Olathe Medical Center, the average MRI scan takes about 20 minutes. On rare occasions the test will last longer. A small percentage of patients may experience anxiety during the procedure. A light sedative, prescribed by a physician, usually resolves the problem. You can also bring a CD of you favorite music to listen to during your scan.

Important Safety Precautions
Since MRI uses a very strong magnet for imaging, it is important that we know if you have any metal objects implanted in your body. The following items will prevent you from undergoing an MRI:

• Brain Aneurysm Clip
• Cardiac Pacemaker
• Internal Electrodes or Wires
• Cochlear Ear implants
• Insulin Pumps
• Internal Cardiac Defibrillator

Be sure to mention any other types of metal in your body to your doctor and to the MRI technologist before the test.