What’s an MRI?
MRIs or Magnetic Resonance Images let doctors see inside your body to identify a wide variety of possible medical conditions—all without exposure to X-rays. Instead, an MRI uses a powerful magnet, radio waves, and special coils to detect electrical signals from your body. A computer then processes this information to create detailed images our doctors can use to find out what’s wrong with you or a family member.

 Why Schedule your MRI at Susan B. Allen?
There’s no better place to schedule an MRI exam than Susan B. Allen Susan B. Allen Memorial Hospital. That’s because we’re the only facility in the region with the Philips Ingenia 1.5T, the first-ever digital broadband MR scanner. This revolutionary system delivers superb image resolution, fast exams, and a more open patient experience you can feel good about.

It’s fast. Our Ingenia 1.5T can scan patients of varying size, age, and medical condition in less time than previous MR systems on the market. Routine exams of the brain, spine, knee, ankle, and liver are quick and easy. And even more complex scans may only last 15 to 40 minutes.

It’s comfortable. Our revolutionary new Philips Ingenia 1.5T has a 70cm wide-bore opening to make you feel less confined. It’s one of the largest MRI bore openings available, anywhere. In fact, most scans can be done with your head completely out of the system.  Our MRI system is not only minimally invasive, it’s minimally intimidating.

It’s accurate. The Philips Ingenia 1.5T delivers the revealing images your doctor needs to help diagnose your medical condition correctly.  Our staff can use the Ingenia 1.5T to quickly generate a wide range of MR images—the whole body or any part of it.

It produces the precise, detailed images they need to confidently diagnose many different anatomical and structural problems in the body—including brain and nervous system disorders, cardiovascular disease, and organ disease. And the wide 70cm opening means we can accommodate more patients of varying size, age, and physical condition.

For more information about MRI services, call 316.322.4510.

What’s an MRI?
MRIs or Magnetic Resonance Images let doctors see inside your body to identify a wide variety of possible medical conditions—all without exposure to X-rays. Instead, an MRI uses a powerful magnet, radio waves, and special coils to detect electrical signals from your body. A computer then processes this information to create detailed images our doctors can use to find out what’s wrong with you or a family member.

Do MRIs hurt?
MR imaging is painless and much quicker than you might think, especially with our new Philips Ingenia 1.5T. It has a wide opening, so it’s much less confining than older MR systems and a lot more comfortable for more patients. Since it’s fast and accurate, you’ll be done quickly and it’s less likely your doctor will have to run any follow-up scans.

Is there any risk?
MRIs use no harmful radiation and there are no known health side effects. MRI studies are very low-risk procedures for most patients.

Can anyone get an MRI?
An MRI isn’t for everyone. Be sure to inform your physician if you have a pacemaker, aneurysm clips in the brain, a shunt with telesensor, inner ear implants, metal fragments in one or both eyes, implanted spinal cord stimulators, or if you’re pregnant or breast feeding.

How do I prepare for an MRI exam?
For many MRI exams, no special preparation is needed. For some, you may need to fast for 4-12 hours prior to the exam. Others require you to swallow a fluid, or to have an injection, that helps show what’s going on inside your body. Guidelines vary with the specific exam you’ll be undergoing. You will be asked to remove all metal (earrings, watches, bobby pins, etc.) and credit cards. You may be asked to wear a gown during the exam or wear loose-fitting clothing with no metal fasteners, zippers, or buttons.

How long will the exam take?
With our advanced Philips Ingenia 1.5T, we can perform routine exams of the brain, spine, knee, ankle, and liver quickly and easily. More complex vascular, cardiac, and musculoskeletal studies can last from 20 to 40 minutes. You should allow extra time in case the exam lasts longer than expected.

Why is Susan B. Allen the right choice for an MRI?
At Susan B. Allen, we added the Philips Ingenia 1.5T MR system to ensure our doctors and staff have access to the best imaging equipment available and to help deliver the best experience possible to our patients. The Philips Ingenia 1.5T delivers superb image quality, fast exams, and a more open experience that you can feel good about. In fact, most scans can be performed with your head entirely out of the opening. You’ll probably be very comfortable as you lie on the padded table.

Does the scanner make a lot of noise?
The magnet makes a slight rapping sound as images are being taken. In between scans the machine is quiet. Your MRI technologist will provide you with hearing protection, but you can still hear the technologist if he or she speaks to you during the exam.

Will I have to hold still the whole time?
We’ll get the highest quality results if you hold still during the exam. The technologists will guide you and let you know when you can move between scans.

Will I be alone?
You’ll be in contact with one of our technologists at all times. Even when he or she is not in the MRI room, you will be able to talk to him or her by intercom. In some cases a family member is welcome to stay in the room with you during your scan.

How do I schedule an MRI at Susan B. Allen?
In most cases, your doctor can do that for you. If you have questions about getting an MRI at Susan B. Allen, be sure to contact the Diagnostic Imaging Department at 316.322.4510.