Open-Air MRI Technology
State-of-the-Art
MRI, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is a technique that allows pictures to be taken inside of the body to obtain diagnostic information. Using the latest computer technology, MRI produces these images of the body without the use of radiation found in x-ray and CT scanning.
An MRI is a non-invasive procedure with no known side or after effects. This procedure is painless; in fact, you will not see or feel a thing. You will hear a slight knocking noise as we use our computers along with magnetic fields and radio waves to generate your images in 3-D planes. These images can provide an accurate diagnosis for your physician, which in most cases can reduce the need for exploratory surgery and other diagnostic procedures that might have an associated risk.
Benefits of an Open MRI |
There are many benefits to an MRI with new applications constantly being developed through on-going research. Open MRI Imaging is now equal in accuracy and resolution to its high-field counterpart - Tunnel MRI. Open MRI is used for all parts of the body and is effective in the clinical evaluation of:
Brain disorders and diseases
Traumatic injuries
Eye diseases
Spine diseases
Tumor detection
Knee and shoulder injuries
Infection
Blood flow and vessel abnormalities
Facial/neck abnormalities
Musculoskeletal disorders
What is an MRI? |
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is one form of imaging modality used by physicians to look inside the human body to obtain clinically useful diagnostic information. Incorporating an advanced technology, MRI produces images of the anatomy without the use of radiation required with other imaging modalities such as x-ray and CT scanning.
MRI combines the physical properties of strong magnetic fields with radio waves to produce computer generated soft tissue images within any plane of the body. This widely used imaging technique can be used as a primary diagnostic tool to provide a quick and accurate diagnosis for your physician. In some situations, this procedure can reduce the need for further diagnostic procedures or invasive procedures such as exploratory surgery that may have associated complications.
MRI is a non-invasive procedure with no known side or after effects. The procedure is painless; in fact, you won't see or feel anything. A knocking sound will be heard, which is simply the imaging process in operation.
Is an Open MRI right for me? |
At first, it is common for many patients to have misgivings about undergoing an MRI procedure. You may be nervous about the feeling of confinement, or the length of the procedure, or whether any discomfort is involved. But, with education, many patients discover that Hitachi Open MRI machines are spacious and quiet, providing superior images with minimum disturbance. Some have even been known to fall asleep during the exam. Below are basic questions and answers regarding Open MRI. We hope they both educate and reassure you about the process.
Can I choose to have my scan at Lakes Imaging Center Open MRI? |
Yes you can. Your physician may have a relationship with a particular diagnostic center and therefore prefer sending you to that particular site. Only a doctor can prescribe an MRI, but you do have the right to have your scan performed at the center of your choice. If your doctor is not familiar with the Open MRI or has questions about the image quality have them call Lakes Imaging Center at 218-822-6736 or visit the American College of Radiology’s website to see what it means to be accredited by the ACR.
What Should You Expect? |
Your MRI scan will last anywhere from 30-40 minutes depending on the type of information required by your physician. You will need to lie still during the procedure. Using an Open-Sided MRI should eliminate any feelings of claustrophobia you may have experienced in the past.
A technologist will be able to see you at all times. For your convenience, an intercom system is built into the scanner so that if you need anything the technologist will be right there to assist you. For your relaxation, radio head phones are available for your use, or if you like, feel free to bring a cassette or CD from home.
In certain instances, a contrast agent may be administered to enhance the study. There are no extra precautions or prior preparations if your study requires this. Please consult your doctor or technologist if you have any questions.
How to Prepare |
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.
Prior to entering the scan room for your exam, you will be asked to leave those items that are not compatible with a magnetic field in a safe place outside the scan room. Below is a list of some of these items:
Coins
Jewelry
Watches
Glasses
Wallets
Credit Cards
Belts
Removable dentures for some exams
Hearing aids
Keys
Hairpins
Other metal objects
You may be asked to wear a hospital gown to avoid interference from buckles, snaps, or zippers on your clothing.
Once you are situated on the table, make sure you are comfortable so that it is easy to remain still for the duration of the examination. Breathe normally. There is nothing about the procedure that will make you uncomfortable. The only thing you will notice is a slight knocking sound that will represent the changes in the magnetic field that are part of the imaging process. Once the exam is over, the technologist will assist you out of the scan room.
Because of the potential harmful effects associated with some metallic objects in a magnetic field, you should check with your physician or MRI technologists if you have had any brain, ear, eye, or other surgeries or any of the following:
Pacemaker
Neuro-stimulator (Tens-unit)
Metal implants
Intrauterine device (IUD)
Aneurysm clips
Surgical staples
Implanted drug infusion device
Foreign metal objects in the eye
Shrapnel or bullet wounds
Permanent eyeliner (new tattos)
Note: If you are pregnant please notify your physician.
What Happens After Your MRI? |
Your MRI images are interpreted by one of our seven Board-Certified Radiologists with subspecialties in musculoskeletal and neuroradiology. The completed report will be sent to your doctor, who will then contact you with the results. We strive to have all results to your doctor within twenty-four hours of your scan time.
Referring Physician Information |
Please complete the Physicians Order/Scheduling Sheet and fax it to 218-822-3758. Please print out the Patient Information Sheet for your patients and have them fill it out before they arrive for their appointment.
How do You Find Us? |
Our facility is located at 2019 South 6th Street in Brainerd, Minnesota. Click here for a map.
Driving Directions From the North |
Hwy 371S to the intersection of Hwy 210 and 371. Turn left onto Hwy 210 E, go 2.2 miles till you come to stop lights on South 6th Street at the historic water tower. Turn right on South 6th street. Drive 1.6 miles on South 6th Street till you come to Wright Street. Take a left on Wright Street at the Armory sign and immediately turn right onto the frontage road. Follow the frontage road to the 4th building on your left. Look for the loon on our sign.
Driving Directions From the South |
Hwy 371N to the exit ramp for Brainerd. Turn right onto Business Hwy 371N once on the ramp. Drive 4.5 miles to Wright Street. Turn right at the Red Roof Inn Hotel. Take a quick left onto the frontage road. Our building is on the 3rd building on the right. Look for a loon on our sign.
Driving Directions From the West |
Hwy 210E to South 6th Street. Turn right on South 6th Street at the stop lights at the historic water tower. Drive 1.6 miles on South 6th Street till you come to Wright Street. Take a left on Wright Street at the Armory sign and immediately turn right onto the frontage road. Follow the frontage road to the 4th building on your left. Look for the loon on our sign.
Driving Directions From the East |
Hwy 210W to South 6th Street. Turn left on South 6th Street at the stop lights at the historic water tower. Drive 1.6 miles on South 6th Street till you come to Wright Street. Take a left on Wright Street at the Armory sign and immediately turn right onto the frontage road. Follow the frontage road to the 4th building on your left. Look for the loon on our sign.
Hwy 18W to South 6th Street. Turn left onto South 6th Street at the stop light at the YMCA. Drive 1.2 miles on South 6th Street till you come to Wright Street. Take a left on Wright Street at the Armory sign and immediately turn right onto the frontage road. Follow the frontage road to the 4th building on your left. Look for the loon on our sign.
MapQuest It
If you would like additional directions on MapQuest click here.
How to Contact Us |
Hours
We are open between the hours of 8:00 am - 5:00 pm, Monday - Friday.
Phone Numbers
- Main Number: 218-822-6736
- Toll Free Number: 877-522-7222
- Fax Number: 218-822-3758
E-mail Addresses
Pay Your Bill On-Line |
To pay your bill on-line go to www.radbilling.com.
