Access
Open MRI and Imaging Center features on-site x-ray services at
all four of our Seacoast locations. Having on-site x-ray services
allows for our physicians to have access to all of the appropriate
imaging necessary for a fast and accurate diagnosis.
Highly advanced, comfortable and completely pain
free. It's the state-of-the-art open MRI at Access Sports Medicine
& Orthopaedics; which we are pleased to announce is the first
Open MRI Center of its kind in the country to be accredited by
the American College of Radiology. This accreditation shows how
much we are committed to quality orthopedic care and patient safety.
What
is an MRI?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging or MRI is a diagnostic tool used to
visualize the inside of the human body. It uses a large magnet,
radio waves, and a computer system in order to obtain detailed
images that cannot be seen on x-ray or CT scan. Studies show that
there are no proven side effects to having an MRI and NO radiation
is used during the scan.
What
is an OPEN MRI?
An open MRI scanner produces the same quality images as a traditional
closed MRI Scanner. The most notable difference between the two
is that an open MRI is conducted in an open and much more comfortable
environment. A traditional closed MRI involves a patient entering
a narrow tube where mobility and visibility are limited. In the
Access Open MRI and Imaging Center, patients rest comfortably
in an open pavilion where they are able to communicate freely
with the MRI Technologist and even look out the windows.
What
if I am Claustrophobic?
While most patients that are scanned in our Open MRI scanner do
not experience claustrophobia, we are sensitive to the fact and
understand that this may still be a problem for some patients.
If you are concerned that this may be a problem for you, it is
possible in many cases to obtain a prescription for a mild sedative
from your physician. However, if a patient is given a sedative,
we require that a family member or friend drive them to and from
their exam. For additional comfort and peace of mind, we do allow
patients to have someone accompany them into the MRI Pavilion
during the scan. If you have any concern about being claustrophobic,
please let us know and we will work with you to make your experience
as comfortable as possible.
I
have heard that MRI Scanners are very loud, will I need ear plugs?
Traditionally, closed MRI scanners produce loud “knocking” sounds
throughout the exam. The Access Open MRI Scanner is much quieter,
producing only a soothing white noise throughout most of the exam.
Patients are also encouraged to bring in an iPod or CD of their
choice to be played during their MRI. If you happen to forget
your iPod or CD we can always tune into one of your favorite Radio
Stations.
How
long will my exam take?
Each scan time differs depending on the body part being examined.
On average, each scan takes about 30-40 minutes. We do ask that
you arrive 5-10 minutes prior to your appointment for screening
to ensure your safety in the magnetic field.
When
will I get my results?
After your scan, the technologist sends your images and paperwork
to an offsite Radiologist Center where a team of highly specialized,
board-certified and fellowship-trained radiologists will read
and interpret the results of the scan. It takes approximately
two business days for a report to be generated. When the results
have been generated they are sent directly to the ordering physician
and they will be discussed with you at your follow-up appointment.
When the scan is completed, you will be given a CD containing
the MRI which is yours to keep and you should bring with you to
your follow-up appointment.
