MRI scans help diagnose issues with the brain, spine, bones, joints, soft tissues, and blood vessels. It is commonly used to evaluate conditions such as neurological disorders, joint injuries, soft tissue damage, and vascular conditions.

MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography) is a specialized MRI technique designed to visualize blood flow and detect issues such as aneurysms, arterial narrowing, or blockages.

At Advanced Radiology, we follow rigorous MRI safety protocols every step of the way to ensure your scan is both safe and accurate:

• We ask about safety concerns multiple times: during scheduling, check-in, before your scan, and again before entering the scan room, so that nothing is missed.
• We screen thoroughly for implants, pacemakers, metal fragments, and other devices that could be affected by MRI.
• If contrast is needed, we evaluate risks to come to a clinically appropriate decision.
• Our MRI technologists are highly trained, and our facility is accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR), meaning we meet nationally recognized standards for imaging quality and patient safety.

You can trust that your exam is being performed in an environment that puts safety, precision, and your peace of mind first.

MRI contrast, usually gadolinium, is an injectable substance used to enhance the images of certain tissues or blood vessels. It is safe, easy to tolerate, and administered intravenously (IV) or directly into the joint for specific exams.

Please inform us if you have any of the following, as MRI/MRA may not be suitable for you:

• Cardiac pacemaker
• External glucose monitor
• Pain or insulin pump
• Ear implant
• Aneurysm clip
• Stent or metal sutures
• Metal fragments (including in the eyes)
• Pregnancy (discuss with your healthcare provider)

• Medications: Take any prescribed medications with a sip of water.
• Previous Imaging: Bring any prior imaging to help our radiologists compare your current results.
• Disclose: Inform staff of any metal, implants, pacemakers, and other devices that may be in or on your body.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable clothes without metal zippers, buttons, or glitter, and be ready to remove all hairpieces, pins, clips, and/or barrettes.
• Preparation for Claustrophobia or Pain: If you experience claustrophobia or discomfort, please notify your healthcare provider or us before the exam.
• Pre-medication: If this is required, you’ll need a driver for your appointment.

Your technologist will guide you through each of the following steps to ensure a comfortable and smooth experience.

• Changing: You may be asked to change into a gown or shorts for the procedure.
• Comfort: Our technologist will assist you onto the exam table and make sure you're comfortable.
• Noise: The MRI machine makes loud noises, but earplugs will be provided for your comfort.
• Staying Still: It's important to remain still during the exam to ensure the best image quality

The typical MRI exam lasts about an hour, though the exact time depends on the specific exam ordered by your doctor.