MRI

We have a true open-sided MRI scanner at our Madison location. The open machine has unobstructed views on the sides to eliminate anxiety and claustrophobia allowing for maximum patient comfort. The MRI machines in Huntsville and Athens have an open bore design, with a 70cm inner diameter which makes CT-like comfort possible. The scanner's ultra-short system allows your head-out or feet-first for most exams.

We invest in the best technology to obtain the diagnostic results needed. In the past, the magnets in the open MRI machines were not strong enough to produce sharp images. Our open MRI at the Madison center is a high-field 1.2Tesla magnet. It produces crisp, clear images that provide the radiologist with the necessary information needed to make an accurate diagnosis. The MRI machines at the Huntsville and Athens locations have 1.5Tesla magnets; strong enough to produce exceptional image quality and faster exam times.

It’s not unusual for an MRI exam to cause some anxiety. Our MRI machines are shorter and wider than most, creating a CT-like experience. Depending on the body part being examined, your head may not be in the machine. The opening of our machines are wider allowing for more space on each side of the body. Our compassionate technologists will make you comfortable on the table with a warm blanket and provide headphones with your choice of music so you can relax during the exam. Your technologist will talk to you throughout the exam and will give you a call button that you can press should you need immediate attention.

All MRI machines make noise during the scan, which is due to the way the machine creates images. The rhythmic “thump thump” sound is only heard while obtaining images. It’s extremely important during this time to hold completely still to prevent motion, which can result in blurry images. You can listen to your choice of music for relaxation. However, even with headphones, you may still hear faint noises of the scanner. For your safety, hearing protection is always required during MRI exam.

MRI contrast, or Gadolinium may be injected into the vein to allow for better visualization of organs and blood vessels. An IV may be placed in the vein or butterfly needle may be used to inject the contrast agent. During the injection, you may feel a cool sensation at the injection site, which is completely normal. The technologist will review the use of the contrast agent with you prior to the exam and answer any questions you may have.

Some joints, such as the hip and shoulder, are complex structures making accurate diagnoses more difficult. To better visualize the entire joint structure, your doctor may order an “arthrogram” with the MRI exam. The arthrogram uses live-action x-ray to inject contrast dye directly into the joint. The injection is performed by a radiologist under a local anesthetic. The injection may be slightly painful and you may feel pressure in the joint as the injection is performed. The radiologist and technologist will take steps to make you comfortable. The MRI will be performed directly after the arthrogram is performed so the injected dye will be visible providing more clarity to the structures in the joint. Arthrograms are performed at the Huntsville and Athens locations.

ODC Alabama understands that the cost of an imaging exam can be a concern. Our rates for both insured and uninsured patients are substantially lower than the same exam performed at a hospital. We believe that price transparency is important so you can be prepared for your financial obligations, if any. To learn more about what your exam may cost, please click here.

The radiologist will review the MRI images and provide a diagnostic report that will be sent directly to your provider. The report is typically available to your provider within 24 hours. Many providers plan scheduled time to discuss results with their patients so you could check with their office to see when they will be available to review the information with you.