MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) produces some of the most detailed images possible of your internal tissues and organs. Schatzki Associates in Cambridge, Massachusetts, has a team of neuroradiology, musculoskeletal radiology, and body imaging specialists who use state-of-the-art MRI to diagnose disease from head to toe. Call Schatzki Associates to learn more about undergoing an MRI.

What is MRI?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) combines advanced computer technology with radio frequencies and a large magnet to generate images of your body’s internal organs and structures. MRI produces exceptionally detailed images, giving your doctor a clear view of tissue and bone.

MRI is a safe, fast way to identify damage or disease inside your body. The Schatzki Associates team uses state-of-the-art 3T (three Tesla) MRI. Teslas are units of magnetic strength.

Standard MRI machines are usually 1.5 Teslas, so 3T has twice the strength. This delivers faster, more efficient scanning that can handle multiple organs. 3T MRI can detect more and smaller abnormalities and quickly produce enhanced, consistent images.

What is MRI used for?

You might require an MRI if your doctor needs to look more closely at parts of your body that could be causing unpleasant or painful symptoms. Schatzki Associates often receives MRI referrals to help diagnose conditions of the:

• Bones and joints
• Connective tissues
• Head and neck
• Arteries and veins
• Spine
• Heart
• Brain and spinal cord
• Liver
• Pancreas    
• Reproductive organs
• Breasts
• Prostate gland

The Schatzki Associates specialists use 3T high-field MRI to obtain exquisite images of the prostate gland. These help to identify early tumors and determine tumor staging.

MRI is also useful for assessing infections. MRI machines can accommodate people weighing over 300 pounds, giving access to cutting-edge diagnostics for larger patients.

What happens during an MRI procedure?

MRIs are noninvasive and painless. The MRI machine is a large unit shaped like a short tunnel with a moveable table. You lie on the table with comfortable moldings to keep you in the desired position. Some MRIs might require an injection of contrast material into a hand or arm vein. The dye highlights specific areas of interest in the MRI pictures.

When you’re ready, your provider slides the table into the MRI unit and leaves the room to begin your scan. The MRI machine makes repeated tapping and thumping noises that may be quite loud, but you can wear earplugs or listen to music to block the noise.

If you have any concerns during the procedure, you can talk to the technologist performing the MRI at any time using the microphone by your head.

MRIs can take anywhere from 15 minutes to over an hour, depending on the purpose of your scan. It’s important to remain still throughout to prevent the images from blurring.

To learn more about MRI and its role, call Schatzki Associates today.