An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) machine can produce high-resolution images of organs, tissues, and bones. Unlike X-rays and CT scanners, an MRI uses large magnets and sound waves to create images. It is an important tool for diagnostic imaging and may be recommended if X-rays and CT scans do not generate clear images of the area of concern. For instance, soft tissues do not come up well in X-rays, and CT scans are not very good at showing differences between tissues.
If you are scheduled for an MRI, you may be wondering what the experience is going to be like and how long you will need to remain in the machine. Your choice of imaging facility is important as it affects the quality of your experience.
How Long Does It Take To Complete An MRI?
The duration of an MRI scan depends on the body part being scanned. A typical MRI scan can take as little as 15 minutes to complete. A brain MRI usually takes 15 to 20 minutes, just as a shoulder, knee, spine, and lumbar MRI, while a breast MRI can take up to 45 minutes. If you are getting an MRI scan for orthopedic issues, the procedure is typically short.
What Happens During an MRI?
For an MRI scan, the patient will be asked to change into approved clothing and lie on a scanner table which is slid into the donut-shaped MRI machine. The machine is a big and extremely powerful magnet capable of generating extremely detailed images of the body’s musculoskeletal system. While inside the machine, the magnetic field realigns the protons in the body, and the radio waves cause them to emit faint signals, which the machine records and uses to create images.
During the procedure, the MRI machine takes hundreds of images of the area of concern from different angles. It can produce detailed images of your joints, muscles, cartilage, tendons, and bones. MRI scans can show bruising, swelling, damage from arthritis or injuries, muscle strains or tears, overstretched ligaments or torn ligaments, inflamed tendons, fluid buildup, and tumors.
An MRI exam allows your doctor to be more thorough in their diagnosis – as in painting a complete picture of it – and tailor your treatment precisely to your diagnosis. If your doctor has suggested an MRI, you shouldn’t worry about radiation exposure and pain, as it is a painless, non-invasive procedure that’ll be over within 30 minutes in most cases.
MRI Scan in Naples, FL
The Joint Replacement Institute is an orthopedic practice in Naples that offers several diagnostic imaging procedures to thoroughly investigate any orthopedic issue. In addition to MRI scans, we also offer digital X-rays, fluoroscopy, and ultrasound. We make it ultra-convenient for our patients to receive speedy diagnoses and treatments by having diagnostic imaging available on-site.
To schedule an appointment with us, call our office today at (239) 261-2663 or use our online request form. We look forward to serving you soon!
