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Magnetic resonance imaging or MRI is the newest diagnostic imaging test available at RIMI. MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radiowaves to image the body. MRI is commonly used to examine the brain, spine, joints, abdomen and pelvis. A special kind of MRI exam, called magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), examines the blood vessels.
Brain MRI
An MRI of the brain produces very detailed pictures of the brain. It is
commonly used to study patients with headaches, seizures, weakness, blurry
vision, etc. It also can further evaluate an abnormality seen on a CT scan.
During the brain MRI, a special device called a head coil is placed around
the patient's head. It does not touch the patient, and the patient can
see through large gaps in the coil. This device is what helps to produce
the very detailed pictures of the brain.
Spine MRI
This test is most commonly used to look for a herniated disc or narrowing
of the spinal canal (spinal stenosis) in patients with neck, arm back and/or
leg pain. It is also the best test to look for a recurrent disc herniation
in a patient who has had prior back surgery.
Bone and Joint MRI
MRI can evaluate virtually all of the bones and joints, as well as the
soft tissues. Tendon, ligament, muscle, cartilage and bone injuries can
be diagnosed by MRI. It can also be used to look for infections and masses.
Abdomen MRI
MRI of the abdomen is most frequently used to further evaluate an abnormality
seen on another test, such as an ultrasound or CT scan. Thus, the exam
is usually tailored to look just at the liver, adrenal glands or pancreas
for example.
Pelvic MRI
For women, pelvic MRI is used to evaluate the ovaries and uterus as follow-up
of an abnormality seen on ultrasound. It is also used to stage endometrial
cancer. For men, pelvic MRI is sometimes used to evaluate patients with
prostate cancer.
MRA
An MRA evaluates blood vessels. The blood vessels in the neck (carotid
and vertebral arteries) and brain are frequently studied by MRA to look
for areas of narrowing or dilatation. In the abdomen, the arteries supplying
blood to the kidneys are also frequently examined with this technique.
Open MRI
Most exams can be performed on the Open MRI such as brain, spine, pelvis
and extremity studies. Although the resolution of some studes in not
optimal, this technology has become an alternative for claustrophobic
patients who can not tolerate the high field magnet design.
Neuroimaging, such as pituitary, optic nerve and internal auditory canal are best seen on the high field units. Contrast enhanced MRAs cannot be performed on the open magnet.
Imaging take longer with this technology, usually one hour per exam.
The MRI scan is performed inside a large cylindrical magnet with a patient table in the center. RIMI has the newest state-of-the art "short bore" scanners. Unlike the older MRI scanners in which the patient was placed in a long tube, these new scanners are much shorter making the studies much more comfortable for claustrophobic patients.
As there is a strong magnetic field, it is important to let the technologist know of any metal on or in your body.
Some MRI exams require an injection of an MRI contrast or dye. This is very safe and is completely different from the contrast agent or dye used for x-ray tests such as an IVP or CT scan.
Typical MRI studies require 30 to 60 minutes. It is important to remain motionless throughout the exam.
All MRI exams at RIMI are interpreted by a board certified radiologist with subspecialty training in MRI.
MRCP/ABD/Pelvis
Nothing to eat or drink three hours prior to exam.
All other MR exams
There is no special preparation.
Open Air MRI
Moshassuck
Medical Center - Providence
Greenwich Medical Center - East Greenwich
High Field MRI
Blackstone Valley Medical Center
- Pawtucket
Barrington Medical Center -East Providence
Lincoln Medical Center -Lincoln
Greenwich Medical Center - East Greenwich
© 2005 Rhode Island Medical Imaging. All Rights Reserved.
