MRI EXAMS LAKE MARY, FL

Vinmed offers Lake Mary Expert MRI Services

At Vinmed, our, Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) has greatly improved the accuracy of diagnostic imaging, particularly in structures such as the liver, brain and spinal cord. Patients are not exposed to X-rays with MRI testing; instead, images are created with the use of strong magnetic fields, radio waves and a sophisticated computer system.

MRI allows Vinmed radiologists to see precise images of soft tissue structures and organs, including the brain, spinal cord, nerves, muscles, cartilage and ligaments. MRI is used to diagnose many conditions, including:

• Tumors
• Multiple Sclerosis
• Infections of the brain, spine or joints
• Tendonitis
• Stroke

MRI can also visualize:

• Torn ligaments
• Shoulder injuries
• Herniated discs

MRI images are produced without the use of radiation and there are no known side or after-effects. The procedure is painless, noninvasive, and you won’t see or feel anything during the exam. A faint knocking sound will be heard, which is the imaging process in operation. In some instances, contrast agents, such as gadolinium, are used to enhance certain anatomical structures and increase the diagnostic accuracy of the images.

Magnetic resonance imaging is used for virtually all parts of the body and is one of the advanced imaging techniques utilized at Vinmed. In addition to its use to view precise details of the head, neck, spine, muscles, joints, and bones, it is also used to image the chest, abdomen and pelvis. Frequently, the differentiation of abnormal (diseased) tissue from normal tissues is better with MRI than with other imaging modalities such as X-ray and ultrasound.

How to prepare for your MRI at VINMED

Depending on how many images are needed, the exam generally takes 20 to 45 minutes. Very detailed studies may take longer.

• You will be asked to lie down on a sliding table and will be positioned comfortably.
• The technologist and nurse will leave the room for your exam, but you will be able to communicate with them at any time using an intercom.
• In certain circumstances, a friend or family member will be allowed to stay in the room with you during the exam.
• You will be asked to remain still during the actual imaging process. However, between sequences, which last between two and fifteen minutes, slight movement is allowed.
• Depending on the part of the body being examined, a contrast material may be used to enhance the visibility of certain tissues or blood vessels.
• One of our Registered Nurses will place a small needle in your arm or hand vein, and an IV will run a saline solution through the intravenous line to prevent clotting. About two-thirds of the way through the exam, the contrast material will be injected.

What to expect during an MRI

• MRI is a painless procedure.
• Some claustrophobic patients may experience a “closed in” feeling. If this is a concern, a sedative may be administered. (Please notify us ahead of time if you will require a sedative.) You may also schedule your exam in our “open bore ” MRI scanner which will help alleviate this reaction.
• You will hear loud tapping or thumping during the exam. Patients may choose either music, earplugs, or both to block out the noise.
• You may feel warmth in the area being examined. This is normal.
• If a contrast injection is used, there may be some natural discomfort at the injection site. You may also feel a cool sensation at the site during injection.