MRI - Magnetic Resonance Imaging

What is an MRI?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is one of the most sophisticated diagnostic tools available to help detect diseases and abnormalities. Using radio waves instead of x-ray radiation, an MRI scan produces cross-sectional images of organs and internal structures. The MRI’s powerful magnetic field and radio frequency pulses produce detailed pictures of organs, soft tissues, bones, and virtually all internal bodily structures. This non-invasive method helps Ogden doctors diagnose and treat many different conditions in the body.

How an MRI is performed

The Magnetic Resonance Imaging system we use at Ogden Clinic is designed to promote patient comfort during brain scans and other assessments. We provide music through headphones during the exam, and patients may choose to listen to their favorite radio station. During the exam, the patient slides into the MRI’s tunnel and lies still while the MRI scans the body and brain. The patient may be injected with an image-enhancement agent that can help improve the appearance of a certain body tissue.

What can Magnetic Resonance Imaging test for?

MRI imaging is performed to evaluate organs, blood vessels, and lymph nodes. These commonly include:

• Organs of the chest and abdomen including the kidneys, liver, heart, pancreas, spleen and bowel
• Pelvic organs such as the bladder, uterus and ovaries in women, and prostate glands in men
• Lymph nodes and blood vessels

Your examination can help diagnose or monitor treatment for conditions including:

• Diseases of the liver and abnormalities of the pancreas and bile ducts
• Chrohn’s disease, ulcerative colitis, and inflammatory bowel disease
• Tumors of the abdomen, chest, or pelvis
• Blood vessel inflammation and malformation of blood vessels
• Heart conditions including heart disease

MRI Preparation

MRI scan preparation is pretty simple. Please arrive at Ogden Clinic in comfortable clothing and no metal snaps, zippers, piercings, or jewelry. Unless you are told otherwise, you may eat your routine diet and take medication as usual prior to your MRI scan.

It is critical that metal does not enter the MRI, therefore, your provider needs to be informed of any implanted metal in your body including brain aneurysm clips, inner ear implants, pacemaker or pacing wires, or metal fragments including piercings.