Below is a list of frequently asked questions by new patients. Please don't hesitate to call us at 702-868-2781 or email us at info@axiomlv.com if you have any questions of your own.
Q: What is MRI and how does it work? A: MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. An MRI scanner allows physicians to look inside the body without using surgery or ionizing radiation (x-rays). The MRI scanner uses magnets, radio waves and computers to produce very clear pictures, or images, of the human anatomy. MRI images depict soft tissue anatomy far better than any other diagnostic imaging equipment. Q: Can anybody have an MRI scan? A: Most people are able to have MRI’s with no problems. However, those individuals with cardiac pacemakers, aneurysm clips in the brain and some types of ear surgery cannot have MRI’s at this time. All patients are required to complete a medical history/screening survey prior to their exam. Q: What do I have to do to prepare myself for an MRI? A: Preparing for an MRI exam is easy. Unless your doctor tells you otherwise, you may take your medications as usual. There are no food or drink restrictions. The only unusual preparation for an MRI scan is that all removable metallic objects must be left outside the scanning room. These items include jewelry, keys, watches, coins, eyeglasses, removable hearing aids, dentures and prosthetic devices. Credit cards should not be brought anywhere near the MRI magnet as the magnetically encoded information will be erased if exposed to the magnet field. Q: Does it hurt? Will I feel anything? A: You won’t feel a thing. Unlike many other MRI scanners, our system is much quieter, comfortable and non-claustrophobic compared to other machines. Q: Will my insurance cover the cost of the MRI? A: Most likely. We accept Workers’ Compensation cases, Medicare, auto accident cases and many commercial insurance plans. As a courtesy to our patients, we will contact their insurance plan or other payor source for a general determination of benefits and whether or not advanced pre-authorization is required. Q: Do I need a doctor’s order to have an MRI? A: Yes. Please be sure to bring it with you when you come for your MRI exam. Q: What should I bring with me when I come for my MRI? A: These three items:
Q: What will the MRI staff want to know about me? A: The registration clerk and MRI technologist will ask you questions about your medical history. They will check to see if it is safe for you to have an MRI scan. The registration clerk will also ask you for certain insurance information, so bring your insurance card with you. Q: How should I dress? Will I have to wear any special clothing? A: When it comes to how to dress for an MRI exam, the main thing to realize is that metal can degrade or ruin MRI pictures. Therefore, you should wear comfortable, loose fitting clothing that is free of metal. If you don't have suitable clothing, we will have you change into one of our gowns. Q: What should I expect during my test? A: Depending on the exam being performed, the technologist will place you in a comfortable seated or standing position and will explain that you will feel nothing. The only way that you will know that pictures are being taken is when you hear a “thumping, knocking” sound which is characteristic of MRI. Because of the unique design of our system, the knocking noise is much quieter than in the “tunnel or tube” style magnets. Q: Do I have to remain very still? A: Yes - as still as you can. The quality of your MRI pictures is directly related to how well you are able to remain still in the position the technologist places you. Motion causes blurry images and increases the chance that clinical information can be missed. If you have a cough or cold and think you may be unable to remain still for your study, it may be best to reschedule your exam when you feel better. A: That depends on what part of the body is to be scanned and whether or not your doctor has ordered any special or extra scans. Normally, the entire exam takes between 20-45 minutes. Q: Is it OK to have an MRI if I’m pregnant? A: If you are pregnant or think you might be pregnant, you must first consult with your physician before having an MRI scan. You must also inform the staff at the MRI scanning center. It has not been shown that MRI is harmful to unborn children. However, if you choose to have the MRI, you will be asked to sign a consent form, which must also be signed by your OB-GYN doctor. Q: When will I find out the results? A: Once your exam is completed, one of our radiologists will study your images and prepare a report of his findings. The results of your MRI examination will be faxed and/or mailed directly to your doctor, normally within 24-48 hours. In turn, your doctor will explain them to you. |
