MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) exam

Has your doctor ever recommended that you get an MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) exam? Or are you simply curious about this safe imaging test?

There’s no better place to schedule an MRI exam than Rockledge Regional Medical Center. That’s because we’re the only facility in the region with the Philips Ingenia 1.5T, the first-ever digital broadband MR scanner. This revolutionary system delivers superb image resolution, fast exams, and a more open patient experience you can feel good about.

It’s fast. Our Ingenia 1.5T can scan patients of varying size, age, and medical condition in less time than previous MR systems on the market. Routine exams of the brain, spine, knee, ankle, and liver are quick and easy. And even more complex scans may only last 15 to 40 minutes.

It’s comfortable. Our revolutionary new Philips Ingenia 1.5T has a wide-bore opening to make you feel less confined. In fact, most scans can be done with your head completely out of the system.

It’s accurate. The Philips Ingenia 1.5T delivers the revealing images your doctor needs to help diagnose your medical condition correctly.

This makes it easier for your doctor to identify and pinpoint any potential problems and helps reduce the number of repeat exams.

The right choice for imaging. Philips Ingenia 1.5T is one more reason to ask your doctor about scheduling your next diagnostic imaging exam at Rockledge Regional Medical Center. 

What to expect with an MRI

• What exactly is an MRI?

MRIs or Magnetic Resonance Images let doctors see inside your body to identify and diagnose a wide variety of possible medical conditions—all without exposure to X-rays. Instead, an MRI uses a powerful magnet, radio waves, and special coils to detect electrical signals from your body. A computer then turns this information into detailed images our doctors can use to help determine what might be wrong with you or your family member.

• What’s the benefit?

MR imaging is painless and much quicker than you think, especially with our new Philips Ingenia 1.5T MR system. It has a wide opening, so it’s much less confining than older MR systems and more comfortable for a wider range of patients.

Since it’s fast and accurate, you’ll be done quickly and it’s likely your doctor will get the needed images.

• Why are MRI scans such a good choice?

An MRI allows doctors to see inside the body without surgery or exposing you to ionizing radiation. Our Philips Ingenia 1.5T MR system produces clear, detailed images of your internal organs and structures from many angles. This gives them better information more quickly than with some past tests.

• How do I prepare for an MRI?

For many MRI exams, no special preparation is needed. For some, you may need to fast for 4-12 hours. Others require you to swallow a fluid, or to have an injection, that helps show what’s going on inside your body. Guidelines vary with the specific exam and also with the facility. You will be asked to remove all metal (earrings, watches, bobby pins, etc.) and credit cards. You may be asked to wear a gown during the exam or wear loose-fitting clothing with no metal fasteners, zippers, or buttons.

• How long will the exam take?

With the Philips Ingenia 1.5T, we can perform routine exams of the brain, spine, knee, ankle, and liver quickly and easily. It will depend on what is being studied. More complex vascular, cardiac, and musculoskeletal studies can last from 20 to 40 minutes. You should allow extra time in case the exam lasts longer than expected.

• Does the scanner make a lot of noise?

The magnet makes a slight rapping sound as images are being taken. In between scans the machine is quiet. Your MRI technologist will provide you with hearing protection, but you can still hear the technologist if he or she speaks to you during the exam.

• Will I have to hold still the whole time?

We’ll get the highest quality results if you hold still during the exam. The technologists will guide you and let you know when you can move between scans.

• Will I be alone?

You’ll be in contact with one of our technologists at all times. Even when he or she is not in the MRI room, you will be able to talk to him or her by intercom. In some cases a family member is welcome to stay in the room with you during your scan.

• Can anyone get an MRI?

An MRI isn’t for everyone. Be sure to inform your physician if you have a pacemaker, aneurysm clips in the brain, a shunt with telesensor, inner ear implants, metal fragments in one or both eyes, implanted spinal cord stimulators, or if you’re pregnant or breast feeding.

Relax. Thanks to advanced design features of our new Philips Ingenia 1.5T, your MRI should prove perfectly comfortable.