| Please choose from the following questions
to learn more.
What is MRI?
MRI, magnetic resonance imaging, is a method used by physicians to visualize
internal organs of the human body and obtain diagnostic information. These
images are produced without the use of radiation. MRI is a noninvasive
procedure and there are no known side or after effects. The procedure
is painless. You won't see or feel anything during the exam. A faint knocking
sound will be heard, which is the imaging process in operation.
The benefits of magnetic resonance imaging are vast and new applications
that are continually being developed through ongoing research. MRI imaging
is used for virtually all parts of the body. It is the primary imaging
modality for evaluation of diseases of the brain and spine. It is effective
in depicting abnormalities of the eye, paranasal sinuses, throat, salivary
glands, and the thyroid. MRI is the method of choice for imaging of the
musculoskeletal system and is widely used for evaluation of the shoulder,
elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle. It can also accurately depict abnormalities
within the bone marrow. It has many applications in the cardiovascular
system. The display of blood vessels known as MR angiography is an accurate,
noninvasive means of obtaining information about arteries of the head,
neck, and body.
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What is a CAT Scan?
A CT or CAT scan is a medical imaging device that combines the use of
x-rays with computers to produce images that allow physicians to look
inside a patient's body. Unlike conventional radiographs, a CT scan can
produce clear, extremely detailed pictures of the body's internal structures.
It can separate bone from muscle and fat in the part of the body being
examined. Much like a conventional radiograph, x-rays pass through the
person's body and a computer then reconstructs the information into cross
sectional images. These cross sectional images allow the radiologist to
evaluate the internal organs as though we looked at the body separated
into a series of thin "slices". Having a CT scan can assist
your doctor in helping make a diagnosis so he/she can adequately treat
your problem. The radiologist performs and interprets the examination
and relays the information in a report which is then sent and discussed
with your physician. Your physician will then, in turn, discuss the report
with you.
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What is an Ultrasound?
Diagnostic ultrasound is an established method of diagnostic medical imaging
using a high frequency sound wave and the principle of sonar. Because
ultrasonic waves cause no damage to human tissues, they are an important
tool utilized for both diagnosis and treatment of disease. It is a reliable,
cost effective means of evaluating many internal organs, including the
liver, pancreas, spleen, kidneys, aorta, gallbladder, ovaries, uterus,
prostate, testicles, and thyroid. It is routinely used to evaluate fetal
growth and complications of pregnancy. Ultrasound is very patient friendly
--there are no injections. Only a small instrument (transducer) will be
in touch with the body.
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When will the results of my examination
be available?
Results are generally available within 48 hours. The radiologist interprets
each examination and dictates a report. The report is transcribed and
sent to your physician's office as soon as available by fax, internet,
and US Mail. Please contact your physician directly for information about
your results.
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What if I am unable to keep my
appointment?
If you are unable to keep your appointment, please call the clinic and
your physician will be notified and your examination rescheduled. If transportation
is an issue, the clinic will help make arrangements for you.
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Does the clinic accept my insurance
plan?
Preferred Imaging accepts Medicare, Medicaid, PIP, Letters of Protection
and almost all insurance and managed care plans. We offer cash discounts
and payment plans for those patients with a demonstrated financial hardship.
Co-payments and deductibles are expected at the time of service.
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How do I prepare for my exam?
(Patient Prep Instructions)
CT Scan
- Patient must be NPO 4 hours prior to your exam.
- Patients must arrive 1 hour early for contrast.
- For patients 60 or older, we must have lab values on B.U.N./Creatinine.
MRI Scan - No Preparation Required
- For comfort, wear loose clothing without metal buttons or closures.
- Patients with pacemakers or other surgically implanted devices should
consult with the imaging center prior to the exam.
MRI Scan-Abdomen
- Follow directions above and patient must be NPO 6 hours prior to exam.
Ultrasound - Abdomen Sonogram
- Nothing to drink after midnight the night before the exam.
- For all pelvic/OB sonograms, drink at least 4 glasses of water or
juice one hour before the exam.
- Do not urinate before the exam because a full bladder is required.
Xray - No preparation required
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