MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

The MRI system creates a powerful magnetic field, and in conjunction with radio waves, causes hydrogen atoms or other selected elements of the body to give off signals. As a patient’s body moves through the magnetic field, hydrogen atoms align themselves in the body. A series of radio frequency waves is introduced while the patient is positioned inside the magnetic field, causing the hydrogen atoms to react to the radio impulses and send back their own signals. The signals are processed into high quality images of the body. MRI benefits include:

Non-invasive
Uses no radiation, making it virtually risk free
Relatively simple and painless
Usually performed on an outpatient basis, making it more convenient and cost-efficient for patients

An open architecture MRI unit is available to patients. The open-face unit is ideal for patients who are large-framed or suffer from severe claustrophobia.