Q: What's the difference between the TruSCAN MRI Stand-up, "High Field", Open MRI and other MRI's?
A: There are several differences. Perhaps the most important is that while all other MRI machines scan the patient when they are lying down or recumbent, our MRI actually allows you to sit or stand for your study. Often a "weight bearing" MRI is the only position in which the patient's symptoms occur.

Also, due to the design of the TruSCAN MRI Stand-up, we can image patients in a variety of positions, referred to as positional MRI or pMRI, that are not possible in other MRIs. These positions include flexion, extension and rotation.

Most open MRI's are considered "low field", having a magnet strength of .23T or .3 Tesla. Our "high field" magnet is a .6T strength which assists us in securing quality images in this unique, non-claustrophobic setting.

Q: I've been claustrophobic in other machines, how "Open" is this one?
A: Our new TruSCAN MRI Stand-up allows you to sit or stand and watch a TV monitor mounted on the wall in the exam room. There are no obstacles to make you feel confined. If your doctor orders an MRI in a recumbent position (lying down), the ceiling of the room is the only thing over your head.

Q: Are there any special preparations or restrictions?
A: You only need to prepare for an MRI if you are having IV sedation or contrast (dye), in which case you should not eat for several hours prior to your exam. Rose Radiology Center, Inc. (RRC) staff will provide you with specific instructions at the time you schedule your appointment.

Q: Why is it important to remove any metallic objects before I enter the MRI room?
A: You'll need to remove all metal objects for safety reasons and because they can cause artifacts to appear on the MRI image.

Q: Will there be any problems if I have had surgery in which metal has been implanted?
A: As a rule, no. However, please be sure to notify our technologist of any prior surgeries before your exam. Patients with pacemakers or certain types of aneurysm clips should not have an MRI.

Q: Is there any risk?
A: MRI is a very safe diagnostic procedure. There have been no health risks associated with the magnetic field or the radio waves used by the machine.

OPEN MRI
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Q: What is the difference between an MRI and a CT?
A: Unlike CT, MRI does not use radiation. Instead, MRI creates high-quality images through the combination of a magnetic field and radio waves. MRI is much more sensitive to the imaging of the soft tissues of the body than CT.

Q: What's the difference between an "OPEN" MRI and a "tube" type MRI?
A: Some patients feel high levels of anxiety when subjected to the confining space of tube-type MRI's. Our OPEN MRI has an unobstructed view from three sides, allowing you to see and talk to our technologist during your exam. Our "open" scanner provides for a higher level of comfort over conventional, "tube shaped" MRI machines.

Q: What body parts can the MRI scanner evaluate?
A: Physicians use the MRI exam to evaluate one part of the body at a time. The MRI can take images of the head and brain, neck, back, abdomen, pelvis, shoulder, knee, ankle foot, blood vessels (MRA) and more.

Q: Are there any special preparations or restrictions?
A: You only need to prepare for an MRI if you are having IV sedation or contrast (dye), in which case you should not eat for several hours prior to your exam. Rose Radiology Center, Inc. (RRC) staff will provide you with specific instructions at the time you schedule your appointment.

Q: Why is it important to remove any metallic objects before I enter the MRI room?
A: You'll need to remove all metal objects for safety reasons and because they can cause artifacts to appear on the MRI image.

Q: Will there be any problems if I have had surgery in which metal has been implanted?
A: As a rule, no. However, please be sure to notify our technologist of any prior surgeries before your exam. Patients with pacemakers or certain types of aneurysm clips should not have an MRI.

Q: Is there any risk?
A: MRI is a very safe diagnostic procedure. There have been no health risks associated with the magnetic field or the radio waves used by the machine.

Q: Can I get an MRI if I am pregnant or breastfeeding?
A: While an MRI scan has no known side effects, it is not recommended for pregnant women unless it is medically indicated. If you are breastfeeding and have contrast as part of your exam, please suspend nursing for 24 hours after your exam.

Q: Why is the scanner so noisy?
A: The MRI scanner works with strong magnetic fields that build up energy. The energy is released as loud knocking sounds. Our technologist will offer you a set of ear plugs to make your exam more comfortable.