Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

AMI has two types of MRI available for patients - traditional and open, because of this we can easily accommodate same day scheduling for patients. Our Open MRI is the only high-field open MRI in the state of Nebraska. This Open MRI is ideal for claustrophobic and bariatric patients. Patients and physicians no longer need to compromise image quality for an Open MRI because the image quality is as good as a traditional MRI. Ask your physician which option is best for you - traditional or open, and remember AMI can offer either of these options with same day scheduling.

What is MRI?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses radiowaves and a strong magnetic field rather than xrays to produce detailed images of body tissues and organs. The magnetic field “excites” and then “relaxes” protons in the body, emitting radio signals. The radio signals are processed by a computer to form an image.

How should I prepare for my MRI?
The magnetic field used in MRI will pull on certain metal objects implanted into the body. The technologist will ask whether you have a pacemaker, brain aneurysm clips, artificial limbs, or any metal screws or plates. A patient with a pacemaker cannot have an MRI. In most cases, metal used in orthopedic surgery pose no risk during an MRI. You will also be asked if you have ever had a bullet or shrapnel in your body or ever worked with metal. If there is a possibility of metal shrapnel in the eyes, you will be asked to do an xray prior to the MRI.

Clothing should be free of metal. Watches and hearing aids must be removed. You may also be asked to remove hairpins, jewelry, removable dental work, glasses, body piercings or any other metal in the region of the body being scanned. Scrubs are provided to change into with private dressing rooms and secured lockers for valuables.

How long will my MRI examination take?
Usually the entire process will take an average of 45 minutes to 1 hour, allowing time also for paperwork and patient care. The exam time may vary from exam to exam. If you are having multiple exams allow extra time for each region being scanned.

Who interprets my MRI examination and how do I get the results?
The radiologist on site at AMI will interpret the MRI. A radiologist is a physician who specializes in interpreting MRI's and other radiologic exams for the detection of abnormalities of bone and internal organs and tissues. A signed report of the radiologists interpretation will be available to your physician 24 hours after your exam. Your physician's office will inform you on how to obtain your results. Some physicians are able to obtain images and reports over the internet.

Contrast agents used in MRI
Gadolinium may be injected by a small needle into a vein in the patient's arm during certain exams. The contrast will enhance abnormal tissue in the body, such as scar tissue in the spine after surgery, or tumors. The contrast is different than that used with Cat Scans. The risk of an allergic reaction and kidney damage is very low. The amount of the contrast injected is determined by the patient's weight.

Commonly performed exams in MRI

  1. MRI Extremeties
  2. MRI Spine
  3. MRI Brain
  • MRI Abdomen
  • MRI Pelvis
  • MRI Breast

Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)
MRA provides detailed images of blood vessels with or without the use of contrast material. MRA can detect blocking or narrowing of arteries, and can also detect aneurysms, an enlarged artery.

Exams commonly performed with MRA

  • MRA Brain
  • MRA Carotids (neck)
  • MRA Renal arteries