What happens during an MRI

mri

Your doctor has recommended an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging). An MRI scan is simply an image of body tissues and bones, created with a huge magnet and radio waves. No x-ray or other high-energy radiation is involved. The scan is safe Precautions and painless.

At Greater Flint MRI, we use the Siemens MAGNETOM Espree, an extremely comfortable and fast, MRI scanner. A pleasant experience for you and the highest diagnostic confidence for your doctor. After all, your health and comfort are our first priorities.

Your referring doctor's office will, in most cases, will schedule your MRI appointment. After your information is received, a Greater Flint MRI staff member will contact you to verify your information and prepare you for your appointment- including collection of all necessary referrals and prior test (i.e. MRIs, CT scans, X-Rays, or surgery) of the area to be scanned.

You will have a private consultation with one of our friendly MRI Technicians who will review your paperwork and advise you on the type of procedure you will have done. This will take place in our Relaxation Suite where you can recline in our zero-gravity Homedics heat and massage chair.

Head and shoulders above the rest
You will notice at first glance, with the new open design of the MAGNETOM Espree, anxiety and claustrophobia are worries of the past. You will be in constant communication with our friendly and highly trained staff throughout the short exam time. Bring your own music or listen to your favorite radio station on headphones. And, if you have a problem lying flat, we will gladly provide a cushion for your head or for raising your feet.

Designed with your comfort in mind.

More headroom
Where a head first exam is necessary, comfort remains the priority. You will relax comfortably with the generous headroom, at least 12 inches of space above your nose. There is also more elbowroom- the spacious diameter is over 25 inches wide allowing for more comfortable shoulder, chest, or upper abdomen scan. This makes a crucial difference that you will notice and appreciate, especially if you are a large person.

More space for you.

Friendly for everyone
The extra large-Open Bore design is flared, to give you a wide open view. Especially children and elderly feel safe and relaxed. Even bodily contact during the scan is possible, for example, holding a child's hand for comfort and assurance. Starting and finishing exams is as easy as lying down and getting up from your sofa at home because the table adjusts down to a comfortable 18 inches and can accommodate patients up to 600 pounds.

Form meets function-accessibility, flexibility, comfort.

Last but not least
For some exams, special coils will be placed over a body part. The coils are ultra lightweight and you will barely notice them. A body coil, for instance, weighs only 950 grams- hardly more than a winter sweater. Significantly more comfortable, even if you are seriously ill or a larger person. Thanks to the revolutionary TIM technology, uncomfortable repositioning is not longer required. Breath holding will be much shorter- or not necessary at all.

Enjoy a quiet, short exam