169 Riverside Drive, Binghamton, NY 13905
Phone: 607-798-5225
|
Short-Bore MRI
|
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic procedure that
uses a powerful magnet, radio waves, and sophisticated computers to
produce a series of detailed images of the body's organs and
structures.
Lourdes is proud to be the only MRI facility in the area to
offer the option of high-field, high resolution imaging on two
types of magnets - a traditional 1.5Tesla (T) short-bore magnet and
a 1.2T open (bore-less) magnet that provides patient comfort for
those who might be anxious or claustrophobic.
Open MRI
|
Open MRI (Bore-Less)
|
At 1.2T, the Hitachi Oasis
High-Field Open MRI System is the most powerful whole body Open MR
magnet available. It produces high-resolution images with short
scan times, and its image quality is optimized by coil technology
that conforms to the part of the body being scanned.
A major advantage of the new Oasis MRI System is its patient
friendly design. The open or bore-less design features a 270 degree
viewing angle, giving patients an unobstructed view of the room and
family/loved-ones present for support. This allows claustrophobic,
obese, and pediatric patients a more comfortable MRI experience
with less anxiety. Soft lighting is also used to further
enhance the openness of the Oasis.
The Oasis features a wide patient table with the capability of
left to right motion to allow comfortable, easy positioning, and
the best image quality. The table also lowers to allow easier
access for wheelchair dependent patients.
Pediatric MRI
A MRI exam can be scary, especially to a
child. Oasis, is a truly open MRI system offering high-touch
patient comfort. Open
MRI provides unobstructed views for
your child. It allows pediatric patients to be
comforted during scanning. It allows constant
parent-child contact for even the smallest
patient. In most cases, the parent
or guardian is able to lie beside the child and/or hold their hand,
instead of just being in sight. Many times,
your child can even have a favorite stuffed
friend with them.
The open design may even
reduce the need for sedation
or anesthesia which reduces
the cost of imaging and the risks to the child.
If your child
requires an MRI, whether it's with the Open MRI or the traditional
short-bore magnet, this video by
Nationwide Children's Hospital might be a helpful tool in
explaining the MRI process.
Experience the MRI Process can help your child understand
what to expect during an MRI, including how the machine works and
the noises the machine makes.
What makes MRI different?
How does MRI differ from other diagnostic procedures,
such as x-ray, computerized axial tomography (CAT or CT) scanning,
or nuclear medicine studies?
In contrast to x-ray, CT scanning, and nuclear medicine, MRI
provides diagnostic information without the use of radiation or
radioactive substances. MRI is a non-invasive procedure, and there
are no known side/after effects.
The images obtained through MRI can be used to diagnose many
conditions or monitor the progress of treatment for diseases.
Because MRI can see through bone and clearly define soft tissue, it
can be used to make a diagnosis in some areas that x-rays
cannot.
How does MRI work?
MR images are formed when signals emitted by body tissue are
processed by computer software and turned into clinical images.
Signals from the body are generated using a safe magnetic field in
combination with radio waves of a specific frequency. The MRI
signals are detected and converted to a form the computer can
understand. The computer processes the MRI signals from the body to
form MR images. Different tissue characteristics are revealed
through this process and translated into different contrast levels
on the MR images. The trained physician can then view the MR images
and form a clinical diagnosis.
How do I prepare for a MRI?
No special preparation is required prior to the MRI exam. You
may eat normally and go about your daily routine. Continue to take
any medication prescribed by your doctor unless otherwise
directed.
Before your scheduled MRI you must complete
an MRI Screening Form. For your safety,
you must disclose the presence of any metal objects or fragments in
your body. Failing to provide proper disclosure could result in
serious injury. Please download and complete the MRI Screening Form and bring it with
you to your appointment. For your convenience, you can either type
your information directly on to the form, or you can print the form
and complete it by hand.
Because the strong
magnetic field can displace or disrupt the action of implanted
metallic objects, people with cardiac pacemakers cannot be scanned
and should not enter the MRI area. Other implanted devices
must be researched (heart valves, stents, aneurysm
clips, coils, wires, etc.) and patients should bring documentation
stating manufacturer and model so that the device may be
ascertained safe to enter the magnetic field.
|
Foot/Ankle MRI
|
Lumbar Spine (Lower Back) MRI
|
Where to go.
For information on where to go when you arrive for your
appointment, visit our Where
to Go page.
CAUTION
Patients with cardiac pacemakers, with metal slivers in
their eyes, or who have specific implanted devices cannot be
scanned. Any woman who is pregnant, or thinks she might be, should
advise her doctor before proceeding with this exam.
MRI is performed by a highly skilled technologist and studied by
a radiologist with specialized training in the field of MRI, who
will then provide a written report of the findings to your
physician. If you have any questions about the MRI, please call
607-798-5023.
For additional information about
Diagnostic Imaging services at Lourdes, call
607-798-5225.
