Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) exams enable physicians to see inside the body without using X-rays. Instead, MRI creates images by using radio waves, a computer and a powerful magnet approximately 7,000-times stronger than the magnetic force of the earth.

Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) is a specific type of MRI scan that is optimized to show blood vessels and blood flow. Physicians use this test to rule out blood vessel disorders and plan treatment.

While the majority of MRI exams historically have been studies of the head and neck, the technology is now used to assess disease and injury in the spine and back, the pelvis and abdomen, and the extremities such as knees, shoulders, ankles and wrists. MRI is even used in the evaluation of diseases of the breast including breast cancer.

MRI can diagnose neurological disorders like multiple sclerosis, meningitis, Alzheimer's, malignant and benign tumors in the brain and other parts of the body, as well as injuries and diseases affecting the spine and other anatomical areas.

Instead of relying on X-rays like CT scans and conventional X-ray exams, MRI uses radio waves, a computer and a powerful magnet approximately 7,000-times stronger than the magnetic force of the earth. MRI produces better images of soft tissue than CT scans or X-ray exams.

If you are pregnant please notify your physician. Also patients with the following should not have an MRI:

• Cardiac Pacemaker
• Aneurysm clips in the brain
• Foreign metal objects in the eye

While people of all ages have MRI’s, potential harmful effects are associated with all metallic objects in a magnetic field. Therefore, you should check with your physician or MRI technologists if you have had brain, ear, eye or other surgeries of any of the following:

• Neuro-stimulator (Tens-units)
• Surgical Staples
• Implanted Drug Infusion Devices
• Shrapnel or Bullet Wounds