Seattle Orthopedic Center

MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance imaging. It is a diagnostic tool that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to allow doctors to look at certain parts of the body more clearly than with other imaging equipment. An MRI procedure uses no harmful radiation, is completely non-invasive and painless with no known side-effects.

Open Magnetic Resonance Imaging systems are the ultimate in patient comfort while providing the versatility needed to meet a demanding range of clinical requirements.  Open MRI is unique because it is comfortable, quiet and open on all four sides!

As opposed to a conventional MRI scanner, an open MRI scanner does not place the patient in a tube or tunnel. Rather, the patient is placed in a much less confining imaging space. A receiver coil is placed around the body part that is to be scanned and then that portion of the body is centered in the machine.

An open MRI unit greatly increases patient security, reducing the feelings of claustrophobia and restraint associated with some “closed” MRI units while still delivering the consistently high-quality images needed for comprehensive diagnosis.

The MRI contains a padded bed on which you will lie during the exam. An MRI technologist will be in continual voice and visual contact with you.  Exams normally last 45 to 60 minutes.

MRI is the method of choice for imaging of the musculoskeletal system.  It is widely used for evaluation of the spine, shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle.   It can also accurately depict abnormalities within the bone marrow

No special preparation is necessary before your exam. You may eat and drink as you normally do.   Continue to take any medication prescribed by your doctor unless otherwise directed.

Because of the potential harmful effects associated with some metallic objects in a magnetic field, you should check with your physician or MRI technologist if you have had any brain, ear, eye or other surgeries or any of the following:

• Cardiac Pacemaker
• Neuro-stimulator (Tens-unit)
• Metal implants
• Intrauterine device (IUD), etc
• Aneurysm clips
• Surgical staples
• Implanted drug infusion device
• Foreign metal objects in the eye
• Shrapnel or bullet wounds
• Any possibility of pregnancy

You may wear your own clothing if it contains no metal such as zippers, snaps, etc. A good choice would be sweatpants and a top.   If your clothing is unsuitable, a dressing gown will be provided.

Because of the magnetic field, you will be asked to leave the following items in a safe place outside the scan room:

• Coins
• Jewelry
• Watches
• Glasses
• Credit Cards
• Hearing Aides
• Keys
• Hair Pins
• Other metal objects

We ask patients to check in 15 min. ahead of their scheduled appointment time.