Thayer County Health Services does not currently have MRI on-site. An outside service, Shared Medical Services, is utilized. The MRI truck is at TCHS on Wednesdays and Saturdays each week. MRI’s will be scheduled on these days.
WHAT IS MRI?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses radiowaves and a strong magnetic field to produce detailed images of body tissues and organs. MRI does not use radiation. The magnetic field “excites” and “relaxes” protons in the body, emitting radio signals. The radio signals are processed by a computer to form an image.
HOW SHOULD I PREPARE FOR MY MRI?
Because a magnetic field is used in MRI, it will pull on certain metal objects implanted in the body. The technologist will ask screening questions such as whether you have a pacemaker, brain aneurysm clips, artificial limbs, or any metal screws or plates. A patient with a pacemaker cannot have an MRI. In most cases, metal used in orthopedic surgery is safe during an MRI. You will also be asked if you have ever had metal in your eye or worked around metal. If so, you will be asked to get an xray prior to the MRI.
Please wear clothing free of metal. Watches and hearing aids must be removed. You may also be asked to remove hairpins, jewelry, removable dental work, glasses, body piercings, and any other metal in the region being scanned.
HOW LONG WILL MY MRI TAKE?
Exam time may vary depending on the type of exam. Most exams take an average of 45 minutes to 1 hour, allowing for paperwork and patient care. If you are having multiple exams, allow for extra time for each body part being scanned.
WHO INTERPRETS MY MRI?
Thayer County Health Servcies uses Advanced Medical Imaging (AMI) to read all of their procedures. A radiologist who specializes in interpreting MRI’s and other radiologic exams for detection of abnormalities of bone and internal organs and tissues will interpret the images. A dictated report will be available to your physician within 24 hours.
CONTRAST AGENTS USED IN MRI:
Gadolinium, a contrast that is injected by a small needle into a vein in the patient’s arm, is used during certain exams. The contrast will enhance abnormal body tissue. The contrast is different than that used in CT scans. The risk of an allergic reaction or kidney damage is very low.