What is an MRI and how does it work?

Unlike other imaging methods like X-rays and CT scans, MRI uses magnetic fields instead of ionizing radiation to produce images. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) creates images based on how much water different tissue types hold and the overall density of those tissues. Water molecules are composed of one oxygen atom and two hydrogen atoms and it is the hydrogen atoms that align to the magnetic fields. And because the human body contains over 65% water, these images can be very clear.

How safe are MRIs?

Many studies have concluded that MRI is one of the safest technologies for imaging the body.

There have been many studies that show MRI is one of the safest imaging methods for the human body. MRI scans are noninvasive, cause no pain or known tissue damage, and have no known side effects. When operated correctly, MRI can be used for people of all ages. Additionally, having multiple scans within a short period is perfectly acceptable.

Springfield How do MRIs work?

It is common for physicians to order MRI scans for their patients to support diagnoses of conditions involving the neck, back, head, shoulders, knees, hips, and even the internal organs. MRI scans are great diagnostic tools for a variety of ailments, including:

• Aneurysms of cerebral vessels
• Disorders of the eye and inner ear
• Multiple sclerosis
• Spinal cord disorders
• Stroke
• Tumors
• Brain injury from trauma
• Size and function of the heart’s chambers
• Thickness and movement of the walls of the heart
• The extent of damage caused by heart attacks or heart disease
• Structural problems in the aorta, such as aneurysms or dissections
• Inflammation or blockages in the blood vessels
• Liver and bile ducts
• Kidneys
• Spleen
• Pancreas
• Uterus
• Ovaries
• Prostate
• Joint abnormalities caused by trauma  or repetitive injuries, such as torn cartilage or ligaments
• Disk abnormalities in the spine
• Bone infections
• Tumors of the bones and soft tissues

For patients who have implanted devices, an MRI scan may not be advised. Talk to your doctor to make sure your device is certified “MRI-safe” before scheduling your scan. These include:

• Metallic joint prostheses
• Artificial heart valves
• An implantable heart defibrillator
• Implanted drug infusion pumps
• Implanted nerve stimulators, i.e., bladder stimulators
• A pacemaker
• Metal clips
• Metal pins, screws, plates, stents, or surgical staples
• Cochlear implants
• A bullet, shrapnel, or any other type of metal fragment
• Intrauterine device

Even if you do not have implanted devices, things like tattoos, hair extensions, or permanent makeup may affect your MRI. For example, some darker tattoo inks contain metal.

Although magnetic resonance imaging is a low-risk technique, it should be used judiciously and only for targeted clinical needs. Please tell your doctor if you may be pregnant before scheduling your MRI.

Prior to your MRI scan, continue eating as usual and taking your medications as instructed by your doctor. You may be asked to remove certain things that could interfere with the magnetic imaging beforehand. Some of these may include:

• Jewelry or piercings
• Bobby pins or other hairpins
• Eyeglasses
• Watches
• Wallets
• Keys
• Change
• All credit/debit cards
• Wigs
• Dentures
• Hearing aids
• Cosmetics that contain metal particles
• Medication patches
• Any clothing item with metal, including zippers, steel-toed boots, and underwire bra

Are you a physician or medical facility and want to refer a patient for an MRI scan in Springfield, MO? Please use our convenient digital form, or download and fax the form to us at 417-485-4424. We’ll take care of the scheduling on your behalf, and we’ll send you your patient’s exam results via the PACS portal or another delivery method of your preference.

CONCIERGE-LEVEL RADIOLOGY SERVICES

At Sharlin Health Advanced Imaging (SHAI), our goal is to provide the highest standard of service for you and your patients. We aim to develop long-term relationships that optimize diagnostic capability and improve patient care. Our concierge radiology services include the following:

Community Partners

We are here to be valued members of the healthcare community, and create beneficial partnerships with other providers who prioritize patient care. Our team has the resources to support accurate diagnostics for complex conditions and in situations where rapid turnaround is key. From a financial standpoint, SHAI is the best choice for patients who are uninsured or carry high-deductible insurance. We do not charge facility fees and offer the most competitive direct-pay prices for MRI scans in Springfield, MO.

SHAI follows The THREE “A” Principles:

Advanced, Affordable, and Accessible for both provider and patient.  

Contact us for more information about our MRI imaging services here in Springfield. Our affordable MRI scans will keep money in your pocket but also get you the care you need!