Getting an MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, can often be considered a nerve-wracking experience for some people. However, knowing what to expect during your visit can help alleviate anxiety and make the process go more smoothly. 

 In this blog post, we will take you inside Midtown Medical Imaging – a Fort Worth MRI center, and give you an idea of what to expect during your visit.

What is an MRI?

An MRI, short for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is a powerful diagnostic tool that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of your body. 

Unlike other types of imaging, which use ionizing radiation, an MRI relies on magnetic fields to generate high-quality images.

MRI is a non-invasive imaging technique which provides clear images of soft tissues, organs, bones, and the brain with exceptional clarity. 

It helps physicians and patients detect abnormalities such as tumors, buldging discs, tendon injuries, or diseases that may not be visible through other imaging methods.

Advanced MRIs in Fort Worth

At Midtown Medical Imaging, our experts work with the Siemens Vida 3T MRI with Deep Resolve Boost, the most advanced MRI for outpatient imaging services.

Its strong magnet makes it great for many medical scans, including those for the brain, joints, bones, breasts, and blood vessels.

We also leverage other cutting-edge technologies:

  • NeuroQuant®: This software automates the analysis of brain MRI scans, providing precise measurements of brain segmentation and volumetric structure analysis.  Identifying neurodegeneration is key for determining risks associated with Alzheimer’s disease and general brain atrophy. 
  • NeuroQuant®MS: This software is utilized to analyze brain abnormalities directly related to Multiple Sclerosis.  NeuroQuant MS provides color coded lesion segmentation, accurate counts of the number of lesions, total brain burden and most importantly, tracks the progression of MS over time.   This is an empowering tool in the detection and treatment of Multiple Sclerosis.
  • Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) Tractography:  DTI generates detailed maps of the brain’s white matter pathways, producing images with more detail than standard MRI scans.

How to Prepare for an MRI

MRI patient preparation is generally straightforward, but there are a few key steps you can take to ensure the process goes smoothly:

1. Follow Pre-Scan Instructions

Your healthcare provider or the Fort Worth MRI Center will give you specific instructions based on the type of MRI you’re getting. 

2. Discuss Concerns

 Midtown Medical Imaging’s 3T MRI is an open bore to help ease claustrophobia or anxiety. This can help you relax as it is the largest opening and most comfortable MRI in the ultra-high field MRI imaging market.

Also, it’s crucial to inform the MRI staff if you are pregnant or suspect you might be, even though MRIs are generally safe for pregnant women.

3. Dress Comfortably

Wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal zippers, buttons, or snaps, as metal can interfere with the magnetic field. You might be asked to change into a hospital gown.

4. Arrive Early

Plan to arrive at least 15 minutes before your appointment to complete the necessary paperwork and discuss last-minute concerns. 

5. Remove Metal Objects

Remove all jewelry, watches, hearing aids, dentures, and hairpins. Inform your technologist if you have any metal implants, such as pacemakers, clips, or prostheses.

6. Stay Still During the Scan

Movement can blur the MRI images, so it’s crucial to stay as still as possible during the scan. The technologist will communicate with you and provide instructions throughout the procedure.

The duration of an MRI can vary depending on the area being scanned, but most non-contrast MRI studies will take approximately 8-10 minutes with our advanced imaging hardware and software.

Midtown Medical Imaging is Your Fort Worth MRI Center

At Midtown Medical Imaging, we not only provide an overview of the MRI procedure but also have a staff committed to ensuring your comfort throughout the process.

Contact us at 817.768.5317 to ask questions or to schedule an appointment.