MRI

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) | Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) | Magnetic Resonance Venography (MRV) | White Plains | YonkersMRI, short for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is a radiation-free scanning technique that uses radio waves and magnetic fields to produce detailed three-dimensional images of the body. MRI can be used to identify or precisely locate an injury or abnormality, to scan for developing problems or analyze damage from previous trauma, and to aid in the planning of surgery. Hartsdale Imaging is accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR) to perform MRI studies. Our 1.5T Siemens Symphony Short Bore MRI scanner provides sharp and detailed images of the body’s organs and joints.

Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) and Magnetic Resonance Venography (MRV)

MR angiography (MRA) and MR venography (MRV) are MRI studies of the arteries and veins. By imaging blood flow, MRA and MRV help our doctors detect, diagnose and treat blood vessel disorders and diseases such as stroke, aneurysms, clots, obstructions, and vascular disease. The procedures are painless, do not always require contrast material, entail short examination and recovery times, and take the place of catheter angiography and exploratory surgery so there is no risk of damaging an artery.

What happens during an MRI Scan?

After you have removed all metal objects, the technologist will position you on a special table, which will slide the area of interest into the scanner. A series of scans is then performed to obtain the images. For clear pictures, you will be asked to hold very still. Any movement during the scan will blur the pictures. While the machine is taking your pictures, you will hear rapidly repeating, loud thumping noises coming from the walls of the scanner. For your comfort, music of your choice can be played during the scan. If you prefer, you may bring with you your favorite music CD, iPod or MP3 player. Earplugs can also be provided. When the thumping noise stops, you must refrain from changing your position or moving about. Using an intercom, you will be able to communicate with the technologist during the entire scan. You will also receive a squeeze ball that you can use to alert the technologist if a problem arises. The technologist watches over you during the exam to ensure your comfort and monitors the progress of the image acquisition. Total exam time is between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the body part being scanned.

MRI Preparation

MRI is a non-invasive and safe test. As MRI works with a strong magnet and radio waves, you must tell the office upon scheduling your appointment if any of the following applies to you:

  • Pregnant
  • Hearing aid
  • Cardiac pacemaker
  • Body piercing
  • Penile implant
  • Dentures
  • Permanent eyeliner/eyebrow
  • Tattoo
  • Shunts
  • Aortic clips
  • Carotid clips
  • Wire sutures
  • Insulin pump
  • Shrapnel (bullets)
  • Stimulator of any kind
  • Heart surgery, including stents or heart valve replacement
  • Brain surgery, including aneurysm clips
  • Eye surgery, including retinal tack
  • Ear surgery, including cochlear implant
  • Any type of prosthesis or implant
  • Artificial or prosthetic limb
  • Any metallic fragment or foreign body
  • Any external or internal metallic object

Unless you are told otherwise, please take all of your medications and follow your regular diet.

Do not wear hair clips, hair pins or makeup.

For an MRI of your abdomen, do not eat for six hours before your exam.

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