Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

GRC is leading the way in providing advanced MRI technology because we are designed for the maximum openness and patient comfort without compromising clinical results.  Our MRIs are continually upgraded and are enabled for multiple specialized applications including Breast Imaging and MRI Breast Biopsy, as well as Cardiac Imaging.

MRI technology produces extremely detailed images of body tissue, organs and bones without the need for radiation. Electromagnetic energy is released when exposing a patient to radio waves in a strong magnetic field which is then measured and analyzed by a computer producing two and three dimensional images. MRI has become a very valuable diagnostic tool detecting everything from cancer, heart and vascular disease, and strokes to disorders of the joints and musculoskeletal system. Of equal significance is the ability for our physicians to avoid unnecessary surgery and more invasive diagnostic procedures.

When having an MRI, patients are required to lie on a sliding table and are positioned by the technologist depending on what part of the body is being scanned. It is very important that the patient remain still during the procedure. Different body parts require various positions and lengths of time. A study can last any where from 15-45 minutes.

Certain studies require an injection of contrast to enhance the images of certain tissue and organs. This contrast is administered through the veins and procedures no reaction or side effects.

Cardiac MRI

Cardiac MRI is similar to CT Coronary Angiography, however, the MRI uses large magnets and radio-frequency waves to produce high-quality still and moving pictures of the body's internal structures; no X-ray exposure is involved. The scan monitors energy changes in tissues reacting to magnetic forces. A computer analyzes these changes and creates a composite image of the tissues. The images can be shown in two or three spatial dimensions in either static or dynamic cine mode.

MRI is especially useful for evaluating the cardiovascular system. In addition to being non-invasive, MRI can image a large portion of the body, such as the chest, in one session.  Because MRI acquires information about the heart as it is beating; it can create moving images of the heart throughout its pumping cycle. This allows MRI to display abnormalities in cardiac chamber contraction and to show abnormal patterns of blood flow in the heart and great vessels. Using MRI, physicians are able to view images of the chest and cardiovascular system from many angles, thus allowing better assessment of complex anatomic abnormalities than with other imaging techniques. MRI has the capability to identify areas of the heart muscle that are not receiving adequate blood supply from the coronary arteries. Aided by use of non-iodine based enhancing agent, it can also clearly identify areas of the muscle that have become damaged as a result of a heart attack.

Preparation

Note: As with all radiological procedures patients should inform the technologist if there is any chance of pregnancy.

• You cannot have an MRI if you have a pacemaker, brain aneurysm clip more than 10 years old, middle ear or cochlear prosthesis, neurostimulator, or have had surgery in the past week.
• You must advise the technologist if you have any prosthetic device (such as a knee or hip replacement). 

Nothing containing metal or wire can enter the MRI

• Do not wear any jewelry, hair ornaments, etc
• All jewelry, earrings, watches, eyeglasses, etc must be removed.
• Pockets must not hold any wallets containing credit cards, Metrocards, coins, keys, etc.

Your physician may prescribe a tranquilizer in which case you must be accompanied by a companion.

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