During the scan, you’ll lie on a cushioned table. Most scans will also require the use of a camera called a “coil” which will be placed near the area to be examined. As the scan progresses, you will hear some noises similar to knocking. These are normal operating sounds and ear protection or music will be provided for you. Most scans average 20-30 minutes and your technologist will be communicating with you during the exam via an intercom to let you know how long the exam will take for each series of images.

If you are claustrophobic, we also offer oral sedation. Please let us know at time of scheduling if you think you need sedation. We’ll ask you to bring a driver and arrive a little earlier for your exam.

Do you have an Open MRI?

We have high field short-bore MRI scanners. They are open on both ends and are bright and comfortable. Most patients can enter ‘feet first’ which reduces anxiety. Our scanners are high-field 1.5T to assure we are providing the highest in image quality. You are welcome to come in to preview our scanners before you make an appointment.

You should be able to return to normal activities immediately following your exam. Meanwhile, the images from your exam will be interpreted by a specialized radiologist. This information is then sent to your referring healthcare provider.

X-RAY EXAM

Our x-ray technologist will explain the procedure to you before the exam and answer any questions you might have. Be sure to inform our staff if you are or may be pregnant.

An x-ray examination is a painless procedure. Our technologist will position you on the x-ray table and places the x-ray film holder or digital recording plate behind the area of the body being imaged. A lead apron may be placed over your pelvic area or breasts when feasible to protect from radiation. You must hold very still and may be asked to hold your breath for a few seconds while the x-ray picture is taken to reduce the possibility of a blurred image. The technologist will walk behind a wall or into the next room to activate the x-ray machine. You may be repositioned for another view and the process is repeated. An x-ray examination usually takes 5 to 10 minutes per exam your healthcare provider has ordered.

= Special care is taken during x-ray examinations to use the lowest radiation dose possible while producing the best images for evaluation. National and international radiology protection organizations continually review and update the technique standards used by radiology professionals. Modern x-ray systems have very controlled x-ray beams and dose control methods to minimize stray (scatter) radiation. This ensures that those parts of a patient’s body not being imaged receive minimal radiation exposure.