MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

What is MRI?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) examinations have become one of the most frequently ordered diagnostic technologies. This is because MRI uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field to provide precise detail of the internal organs, body tissues and associated conditions or diseases. For example, MRI can help visualize joint and musculoskeletal disorders as well as physical changes resulting from cancer, stroke, and vascular/heart disease.

Front View of our Siemens MRI

Aerial view of our Siemens MRI

Other diagnostic uses of the MRI may include showing abnormalities of the brain, hemorrhage, tumor, infection, multiple sclerosis, and demyelinating disease. Head and neck MRIs may reveal carotid artery disease, nasopharyngeal tumors, and sinus disease. MRI of the spine may isolate disorders such as bulging or herniated disk, spinal stenosis, and metastatic disease.

MRI equipment is categorized according to magnetic field strength. Low field units are about .6 Tesla and are suitable for some brain and spine imaging. However, the image quality is not as precise as the higher field strength units such as the 1.5 Tesla MRI units. The 1.5 Tesla units produce the best image quality and provide superior brain and spine imaging as well as orthopedic imaging of the joints.

MRI images themselves look like axial slices through the anatomic structure. The MRI computer can reconstruct or “re-slice” the images at any angle. These allow the physician team to better view and/or isolate any areas of particular interest.

How should I prepare?

Once you have your provider’s referral, appointments may be requested online or scheduled with our scheduling team to be seen at one of our patient locations by calling:  253-841-4353.

For children, larger individuals or people with claustrophobia, we offer a large, ultra-short bore for a more comfortable, less claustrophobic MRI option. Our Espree MRIs are located in Puyallup, Sunrise and Bonney Lake Imaging Centers.

MRI scans are very precise, so patients may expect to spend 30-60 minutes in the MRI magnet. Occasionally, contrast may be ordered to provide enhanced images. The contrast media is administered intravenously, is very safe to use, and improves image quality by enhancing our views of the vascular compartment.

Patients will be asked to put on a medical gown provided for the exam. There is a very strong magnetic field which exerts considerable force on paramagnetic or metal objects and disturbs electronic devices placed in the field.

It is imperative that patients notify the MRI technologist in advance if they have any metal objects on, or in, their bodies. If patients have any of the following, they should not go into the strong magnetic field of the MRI magnet:

• Cardiac pacemaker or artificial heart valve
• Cerebral aneurysm metal clip in the brain
• Other surgical clips
• Insulin pump
• Cochlear implants

Additionally, please inform the MRI staff prior to your appointment if you:

• Are in the first trimester of pregnancy
• Are a metal worker or hobbyist
• Have other metal (pins, screws, plates) or prosthetic implants (i.e. hip, knee)
• Are involved in certain types of manufacturing
• Are a victim of a car accident

Let us know if you have any tattoos, permanent eyeliner, multiple metal tooth fillings or orthodontic braces. Also make sure to remove any earrings or metal body jewelry/objects.

The magnetic field will erase the magnetic strip information on credit cards.

Please make arrangements to keep your children at home on the day of your appointment. Due to the presence of radiation, children are not allowed to enter exam rooms during imaging procedures.

What should I expect?

At the beginning of the examination, you may be asked to remove your eyeglasses, hearing aids, and non-permanent dental appliances.

You will be positioned comfortably on a sliding table near the center of the MRI unit. The technologist will then leave the room. He/she can still see, hear and communicate with you throughout the procedure.

You will be asked not to move during the actual imaging process. During the procedure, most MRI scanners make a loud tapping or knocking noise as the magnetic coils change pulse directions. You will be given ear plugs to wear or headphones for music.

MRI procedures are not painful. You may feel a warm sensation in the area being scanned. This is normal. If you feel uncomfortable, let your technologist know. Some patients may benefit from mild sedation prior to the scan. If this applies to you, your physician will need to prescribe medication for you. Most often sedatives are not required.

When the exam is completed, you will be asked to wait until it is determined whether any additional images are required. If not, you will be allowed to change and return home. Results are usually available three business days after the procedure. Please contact your referring physician for results at that time.

Diagnostic Imaging Northwest is accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR) in MRI.

Which locations provide MRI service?

• Puyallup Imaging Center
• Sunrise Imaging Center
• Bonney Lake Imaging Center