At the Orthopedic, Sports and Hand Center we use a state of the art GE E-Scan XQ MRI unit. The E-Scan XQ combines the benefits of Open MRI and Dedicated MRI, providing us the ability to offer high quality extremity MR imaging.At the Orthopedic, Sports and Hand Center we use a state of the art GE E-Scan XQ MRI unit. The E-Scan XQ combines the benefits of Open MRI and Dedicated MRI, providing us the ability to offer high quality extremity MR imaging.
The E-Scan XQ provides a relaxed and comfortable examination. The open magnet design is claustrophobia-free and can accommodate larger patients with ease.
Q: What is MRI?
Magnetic resonance scanning or imaging (MRI) is a method of viewing the inside of your body without surgery or radiation. The MRI scanner uses a powerful magnet, radio waves, and computer technology to produce extremely detailed pictures of the human anatomy. When you are referred by your physician for an MRI, they are choosing the most advanced method of diagnostic imaging available.
In every MRI scanner, the client lies in a strong magnetic field. Although the magnetic field is invisible and the patient cannot sense it, the strength of the field can be seen by its effect on a magnetic object. For example, if you hold a metal paper clip in the field surrounding an MRI scanner, you can feel the tug of the magnetic field, pulling the paper clip toward the center of the magnet.
Q: When is an MRI indicated?
Whenever your physician requires top-quality anatomic images, especially of soft tissue, chances are that an MRI will be the test of choice. Orthopedic physicians and chiropractors regularly refer patients for MRIs for a wide variety of conditions. The MRI applications mentioned above are just a few of the situations for which MRI is the diagnostic test of choice. MRI technology has already replaced a great number of X-ray-based procedures and it is certain to replace even more in the future.
Q: Do I need a prescription for an MRI?
Yes. If you have reason to believe that an MRI would be beneficial in diagnosing your physical condition more accurately, discuss it with your doctor. If your physician agrees that an MRI exam would be beneficial, he or she can refer you to Western Washington Medical Group Orthopedic, Sports and Hand Center's open MRI.
Q: How do I prepare for an MRI?
Preparing for an MRI scan is very easy. You can take all your normal medications unless your physician gives you special instructions. We do ask you to take the following precautions for your own personal safety and to ensure we get the best possible images:
Q: Can I eat before the exam?
Usually there are no dietary restrictions before a MRI exam. However, if your physician has requested the use of a contrast agent for your MRI then it would be best not to eat two hours prior to your exam to minimize the already unlikely event of nausea.
Q: What is a contrast agent and will I need it?
Certain types of scans require the use of an injected contrast media. This contrast media, which is given intravenously before the exam, highlights certain body parts. If your physician orders this type of scan, our client services coordinator will explain the contrast agent to you and answer your questions. If contrast media is prescribed, please tell your physician:
Q: What does the Open MRI technology staff need to know about me to perform the scan?
Besides complete information about your medical history, your physician and the Open MRI technician must know if you have any metal in your body which cannot be removed, including:
Also, it is important to know if you have been exposed to metallic fragments:
In the case of metal implants, it is often possible for clients to be scanned without risk. It is very important, however, that you reveal the presence of such items to the radiologist and our MRI staff in order for them to evaluate whether or not such a risk exists. Also, it is important to tell the client services coordinator if you are pregnant or if you believe there is a possibility you are pregnant.
Q: Why is the MRI scanner in a special shielded room?
The MRI scanner needs shielding from outside radio wave interference that can decrease the image quality.
Q: What will happen when I get scanned?
Patients are often pleasantly surprised to discover that the MRI examination is one of the easiest and most comfortable medical exams they have experienced. Before the scan our trained MRI technologist will simply ask you lie down on a cushioned table, which will move into the magnet. After you have been comfortably positioned for the scans, all you have to do is relax and lie as still as you can. While the MRI test is being conducted, your MRI technologist will carefully monitor the operation of the exam from an adjacent room. You will hear a knocking sound from the MRI system that ranges from barely audible to quite noticeable; this is normal. Immediately after the exam, you may return to work or home and resume normal activities.
Q: Do I have to lie still when I have an MRI?
Yes. In order to achieve the best imaging results it is important to minimize movement. You should remain relaxed and as still as possible. Because a scanning session will often include a series of individual scans, you will probably be given the opportunity to find a more comfortable position between scans. If you find that you are uncomfortable in any way, the attending MRI technologist will help you find a position in which you can rest comfortably.
Q: I am very claustrophobic. What should I do?
Because our MRI is open— allowing patients to see the examination room about them—the chances of you becoming claustrophobic while being scanned are minimal. If you have claustrophobic tendencies and you are concerned that this may otherwise prevent you from remaining still, please ask your physician to prescribe a sedative for you to take just prior to your exam.
Q: How long does an exam take?
For most scans the time required is approximately 40 minutes, although it may take longer depending upon the anatomy or condition for which you are being scanned.
Q: When will my physician get the results of my exam?
Your MRI scan will be reviewed by an ACR certified radiologist specially trained in MRI technology. The radiologist will then send the report to your physician, who will discuss the findings with you. In most cases the results will be available by noon on the next business day after your exam.
Q: What if I need to cancel or reschedule my appointment?
As we only serve one client at a time, an appointment means that we reserved that specific time for you. If you need to cancel or reschedule your appointment, please call us at least 24 hours in advance at 425.317.9119.