MRI Frequently Asked Questions
1. Why have an upright MRI?
Scans are performed in different positions to detect instability. Back and joint pain are often worse when sitting or standing and improved by lying down. In our MRI patients will be imaged lying down and sitting or standing. This is equivalent to performing two separate MRI scans which improves the chances of finding the cause of your pain.
2. Who Should have an upright MRI?
Our upright MRI scanner offers individuals an unprecidented level of comfort. The open design minimizes or eliminates claustrophobia. The quiet atmosphere reduces fear and promotes relaxation. The ability to watch television or listen to music provides a pleasant distraction during your medical investigation. People with a spinal deformity or other medical problems that impair their ability to lie down can be scanned while sitting or standing.
3. How long does an upright MRI scan take?
The length of time the scan takes depends on the part of the body and reason for your scan. A basic scan typically takes 30 to 45 minutes. Scans in additional positions will increase the length of time needed to perform the exam.
4. How much does an upright MRI scan cost?
This will be individualized depending on the site of the body and reason for the scan. The price is determined by the number of positions, length of time, and use of contrast agents. A quote will be provided promptly upon receiving your requisition.
5. Can the upright MRI be used to screen for medical conditions?
Yes. The upright MRI can do much more than simply identifying a source of pain. The upright MRI can be used to screen for medical conditions such as cancer, heart disease, dementia, or any condition where a structural abnormality can be identified by MRI.
6. How much radiation exposure is involved during an MRI scan?
None. Unlike CT scans which use x-rays to obtain images, MRI scanners use a magnetic field and radiowave pulses to generate images without any radiation exposure.
7. What can I expect to happen during an upright MRI scan?
The technologist will greet you and explain the process completely. You will be asked to remove any metal objects including jewelry, eyeglasses, dentures, hearing aids as well as credit cards. A coil will be placed over the body part being scanned and you will be placed in the MRI scanner in a comfortable position. You can choose to watch television or listen to music during your scan. The technologist will be in an adjacent room where he will observe and communicate with you throughout your exam. You will not feel any discomfort during the procedure. You may be placed in different positions as we take the images. Movement during the scan may affect the image quality so it is important that you remain comfortable and relaxed at all times.