Specialized Diagnostic Tests Care in Colorado Springs

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Colorado Springs Orthopaedic Group

An accurate diagnosis is an important first step in determining the right treatment for an orthopedic condition. Diagnostic imaging and testing can help your physician understand the source of your symptoms, evaluate an injury, and identify changes affecting your bones, joints, muscles, and other structures.

CSOG offers access to diagnostic services that support the evaluation and treatment of orthopedic conditions. Depending on your symptoms and clinical needs, testing may include X-rays, MRI, CT scans, and other specialized diagnostic studies.

Your physician will determine which tests are appropriate based on your symptoms and examination. The results can then be used together with your medical history and physical examination to develop a treatment plan tailored to your condition.

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What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a computer-based diagnostic imaging procedure that uses a large magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the structures of the body to detect any abnormalities. It is particularly useful for imaging of the soft tissues which are not well visualized on X-rays.

Indications for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic resonance imaging helps to diagnose injury or disease such as:

• Spinal cord injury
• Cancer
• Multiple sclerosis
• Trauma
• Bone infections
• Heart disease
• Brain anomalies
• Nerve damage
• Stroke
• Fibroids
• Damage to blood vessels

Preparation for Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Inform your doctor if you have any health conditions, if you are pregnant or if you have any metal implants or materials in your body. You may be advised against having the procedure.

Magnetic resonance imaging does not require much preparation:

• Do not stop taking your medications unless instructed by your doctor.
• Remove jewelry or other metal items prior to the procedure.
• You will be instructed to wear loose-fitting clothes or change into a patient gown.

Procedure for Magnetic Resonance Imaging

The traditional MRI machine is a tunnel-shaped tube with a table that slides through it and both ends open.

• You will be instructed to lie down on a sliding table that will move into the open tube.
• If you have problems with claustrophobia, sedative medication may be administered to keep you calm during the procedure.
• A contrast dye, usually gadolinium, may be injected to improve the visualization of certain structures.
• The MRI machine produces a strong magnetic field and radio waves.
• Protons in the water molecules of your body respond to the magnetic field and radio waves by realigning themselves and producing signals which are picked up by a detector and processed to create the images.
• When contrast dye is injected, it helps visualize certain internal structures more clearly.
• It is normal to hear loud tapping sounds during the scanning procedure.
• The procedure may last from 15 minutes to 90 minutes depending on the part of the body being imaged.

Post-procedure Care Instructions for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

If you are not sedated, you can immediately resume your regular activities. Otherwise, you will require a period of recovery until the medication has worn off or to see if you develop any side effects to the contrast agent.

Risk and Complications of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

MRI imaging does not use radiation and is quite a safe procedure. Certain people may feel claustrophobic during the procedure for which medication can be provided. Complications may occur due to the contrast dye but are rare. This includes:

• Redness or swelling at the injection site due to leakage of the contrast
• Burning sensation
• Asthma (allergic reaction)
• Itching
• Anemia
• Nausea