What is MRI/MRA? (Magnetic Resonance Imaging/Magnetic Resonance Angiography)
MRI, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is one of the most advanced imaging techniques available. MRI has become a preferred method by doctors for diagnosing potential problems in many different parts of the body. It is useful for examining soft tissue, such as organs, muscles, cartilage, ligaments and tendons, as well as bones.
MRI is used primarily to evaluate the brain, spine and joints and is useful in diagnosing problems in the breast, chest, abdomen and pelvis. In addition to the ability to produce unparalleled images, MRI also has a dynamic quality that permits imaging of flowing blood. This allows doctors to evaluate arteries and veins without the need of placing a catheter in the vessel. Northeast Radiology performs MRI scans to identify healthy and unhealthy tissue and suggest appropriate treatments. This allows people to heal with greater comfort, fewer complications, less risk and better results. A physician's referral is required.
How do I schedule an MRI/MRA?
Bethesda North Hospital has several locations where MRI is performed. An MRI requires a prescription from your doctor and must be scheduled. The central scheduling number is 513-569-6777.
Bethesda North Hospital
10500 Montgomery Rd
Cincinnati, OH 45242
Monday to Friday 5am-midnight/ Saturday to Sunday 6am-4pm
Medicenter Diagnostics Outpatient Imaging
10550 Montgomery Rd
Cincinnati, OH 45242
Monday, Tuesday, Friday 6:30am-8pm/ Wednesday and Thursday 6:30am-11pm/ Saturday 6am-4pm
Bethesda North Outpatient Imaging
10615 Montgomery Rd
Suite 101
Cincinnati, OH 45242
Tuesday and Friday 7:30am-4:30pm
Bethesda Medical Center at Arrow Springs (PROJECTED DATE MAY 7, 2007)
100 Arrowsprings Blvd.
Lebanon, OH 45032
Hours to be determined
How does MRI work?
MRIs are formed using two natural forces - magnetic fields and radio waves - to create a detailed, clear picture of your body that includes structures that are not visible with traditional x-rays. MRI exams are painless, and unlike x-rays and some other imaging technologies, MRI does not use radiation.
Back to topHow do I prepare?
Please arrive 15 minutes before your exam to complete a patient information form.
Inform the doctor or the technologist if you have:
- Cardiac pacemaker (MRI is contraindicated)
- An artificial heart valve
- Metal plate, pin, stent, or other metallic implant
- Intrauterine device (IUD)
- Aneurysm clips
- Nicotine or other medication patches
- Previous gunshot wound
- Ever been a metal worker
- Possibility of a 1st trimester pregnancy
Any metallic substance on your body can affect the quality of the diagnostic images. It can also cause discomfort or injury to you when placed in the magnetic field.
Remove your watch, eyeglasses, jewelry, hearing aids and any other metallic objects you may be carrying, including non-permanent dentures.
Unless your doctor specifically requests that you not eat or drink anything before the exam, there are no restrictions on food.
If you are claustrophobic and need valium, please discuss this with your doctor in advance. You will need someone to drive you home after the procedure. Please tell the technologist if you are pregnant.
What should I expect?
Your doctor may have requested that you receive an injection of a contrast agent tgive a better picture of the area being examined. You will be asked to lie down on a padded table that glides you in the magnet. You will hear sounds similar ta drumbeat as pictures of your body are formed. You will be asked to lie very still during the 20 to 40 minute exam. You will be told ahead of time how long your scan is expected to take. At all times, a technologist will be in contact with you through an intercom system as well as visually.
Certain exams may require you to hold your breath. The technologist will inform you if this is necessary.
Follow-up
A board certified Radiologist from Northeast Radiology will interpret the scan and relate a written report of the information to your referring physician within 24 hours. Any finding requiring immediate attention will be called to the referring physician the day of the exam.
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