High Field MRI Magnetic Resonance Imaging (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 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 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 carefully at the liver, bile ducts, kidney, adrenal glands or pancreas. Pelvic MRI For women, pelvic MRI is used to evaluate the ovaries and uterus or to further evaluate an abnormality seen on ultrasound. It is also used to stage endometrial cancer. It can be useful to plan for fibroid embolization. For men, pelvic MRI is sometimes used to evaluate patients with prostate cancer. Magnetic Resonance Angiography (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 or bowel are also frequently examined with this technique. What to Expect: You will be asked to fill out a questionnaire about your symptoms, prior studies and prior surgeries. Because you will be entering a room with a strong magnet, we need to know of any metal or implants on or in your body. For example, pacemakers, metal implants, aneurysm clips, surgical staples, bullet wound or shrapnel, implanted drug infusion devise, bone stimulators, or permanent eyeliner. If you were issued a card with the exact manufacturer and serial number of the device, please bring that card with you to your appointment. If you have had occupational or recreational exposure to metal (welding, grinding, etc), you will need to have an radiograph to make sure that you don't have any metal fragments in the eyes, because they can sometimes migrate in a strong magnet, even years after the exposure. You will be asked to lie flat on the table, and then a "coil" will be placed over the area of interest. The coil typically looks like an athletic ice wrap and can be rigid or somewhat flexible. The table moves slowly into the scanner that houses a large magnet. During the procedure, you will be able to communicate with the technologist by an intercom. The technologist can also watch you through a small camera. The technologist will be in constant dialog with you and notify you when to expect a loud or unusual sound. Typical MRI studies require 30 to 60 minutes. It is important to remain motionless throughout the exam. Some MRI exams require an injection of an MRI contrast or dye. This is completely different from the contrast agent or dye used for x-ray tests such as an IVP or CT scan. If you are over age 65 or have diabetes, high blood pressure or any history of kidney or severe liver disease or transplant we will need the results of blood tests for kidney function before we give intravenous contrast Preparation: If you can, please leave loose jewelry and watches at home. Otherwise, you will be required to place them in a locker with your cell phone, pager, blackberry, glasses, and anything else that contains metal. Magnetic Resonance Cholangiopancreatography (MRCP) Nothing to eat or drink four hours prior to exam. All other MR exams There is no special preparation. The Radiology Information Resource for Patients High Field MRI Locations for MRI: High Field MRI • Memorial Regional Medical Center • Richmond Community Hospital • St. Francis Medical Center • St. Mary's Hospital • Reynolds Crossing Imaging Center Commonwealth Radiology, P.C. 1508 Willow Lawn Dr. Ste. 117 Richmond, Virginia 23230 804-288-8327 www.commonwealthradiology.com