Medical Services > Radiology Services > Diagnostic Radiology > MRI

MRI Magnetic Resonance Imaging

What is an MRI?
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a diagnostic test that uses a strong magnetic field and rapid pulses of radio waves. These produce high quality two- or three-dimensional images of specific areas inside the body. No x-rays are involved.

What is an MRA?
Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) uses MRI technology to produce detailed images of blood vessels throughout the body. Without the use of the traditional catheter used in an angiogram, blockages and enlargements of arteries can be spotted easily, quickly, and without incisions.

Why would I need an MRI?
MRI allows a doctor to see detailed images of soft-tissue structures near and around bones from any angle.

MRI is widely used to diagnose sports-related injuries because it can detect very small tears in ligaments and muscles. It can also help to diagnose heart problems, brain and nervous system disorders, certain types of cancer, and many other conditions.

What to Expect
An MRI is not physically painful in any way. However, some patients feel uncomfortable in the MRI enclosure or with the knocking sound made by the magnet as images are gathered.

Greenwich Hospital makes every effort to help patients feel comfortable during their exam. Earplugs are provided to minimize the volume of the testing equipment. Mirrors allow patients to see outside of the scanning device. Our intercom system allows for constant communication with the technologist. During this time, patients simply lie still in the imaging machine.

Not all MRI machines are the same. The “closed bore” MRI is routinely used for the majority of MRI procedures. It is comfortable, safe and painless. However, patients who have large body frames or are claustrophobic sometimes feel uncomfortable in the MRI’s long bore. For these patients, Greenwich Hospital also offers “open bore” MRI. Both types of MRI deliver high-level diagnostic imaging. The physician will help determine which type of MRI is best for the patient.

Some exams require an injection of a contrast agent to better view the images in certain areas of the body, such as blood vessels. No special diet or preparation is needed beforehand.

The procedure takes between 30 and 60 minutes.

A patient should NOT have an MRI if he has a pacemaker, metallic aneurism clips, metallic hearing implants, certain other metal items implanted in his body, or if she may be pregnant or is breastfeeding.

MRI is among Greenwich Hospital's broad range of diagnostic and interventional radiology services.

Radiology services are generally pain-free, non-invasive and available to both outpatients and inpatients.

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