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MRI

Burnett Medical Center Diagnostic Imaging department accepts orders from providers at our facility or outside providers and specialists. We provide fully digital, state-of-the-art imaging services for your diagnosis and treatment. Magnetic Resonance Imaging, most commonly referred to as an MRI, is one of those services offered at BMC.

 

What is an MRI?

An MRI is a test where a magnetic field and computers are used to generate detailed images of internal body structures. MRI machines can also create 3D images of the body, allowing for views at many different angles. BMC medical specialists utilize MRIs as a noninvasive tool to examine patients' anatomy. Our MRI machine produces high-quality images of the inside of the body that help our radiologists and doctors to diagnose and treat our patients.

 

What does an MRI Show?

MRIs can be used to examine many different parts of the body, and is specifically useful for diagnosing the brain and nervous system. MRIs are also utilized to monitor:

 

  • The heart and blood vessels
  • Bones and joints
  • Breasts
  • Liver
  • Kidneys
  • Pancreas

 

How Does an MRI Work?

MRI utilizes magnetic fields and computers to create diagnostic images. Because the MRI machine uses magnets, you may not be able to be scanned if you have any metal in your body, including a pacemaker, cochlear implants or metal pins, screws or plates that have been placed in the last 6 months. You should notify us when scheduling your appointment if you have any tattoos or permanent makeup, as some darker pigments contain metal that could affect your MRl.

Your MRI scan will be conducted in a quiet, private room during your scheduled appointment at BMC. The machine can be recognized as a large tube with openings on both ends. You will be asked to lie down on a moveable table that will slide into the opening of the tube. Your BMC technologist will monitor you from another room, while communicating with you over speaker. The scan can last 30 minutes to over an hour. You will not see any parts of the MRI machine moving around you as the scan is conducted, with only the sound of a subtle tapping or thumping. The machine can feel confining, if you have a history of claustrophobia, speak with your medical provider about mediation that can help during your scan.

 

MRI Preparation

Preparing for your MRI is fairly simple. You are free to eat normally and continue taking your normal medications ahead of time, unless otherwise instructed. Once you are brought into your room, you may be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove all items that may affect the magnetic imaging, including jewelry, glasses, hearing aids, underwire bras, and any makeup that may contain trace amounts of metal.