Our Open MRI system is located in a very large room with spacious floor
to ceiling windows on two sides giving a wonderful
view of the world outside-trees, grass, and sky! The
entire environment is designed to be wide open and
patient friendly. Our Open MRI system incorporates
the highest field strength and best image quality available
for an open magnet.
Princeton Radiology is committed to providing the
best medical diagnostic imaging available by offering
the patient and referring physician a choice for their
MRI imaging. Most facilities offer either High Field
or Open MRI and have no option but to promote that
equipment. Our many years of experience with both MRI systems at other
facilities convinced us that High Field MRI is preferable whenever possible.
However, for those patients who cannot be evaluated in a High Field system,
the next best patient care choice is our Open MRI. Patients who are referred
to our facility can be assured they will be matched to the appropriate
magnet so the best study will be performed.
During
the examination you will not feel anything unusual.
You will, however, hear a repeated drum-like knocking
sound as the scans are recorded. Feel free to bring
along your favorite CD or cassette tape to listen to during your scan
to make yourself comfortable. Hearing protection will be provided to
those patients who do not wish to listen to music.
You
can help to produce high quality images by lying still
during the examination while breathing normally. The
average scan takes 5 to 15 minutes - the complete examination about 30
to 45 minutes - during which time several dozen images will be produced.
With incredible accuracy,
MRI can detect many abnormalities which CT scanning
and X-rays cannot, especially those involving soft tissue. In fact, MRI
reduces the need for biopsies, exploratory surgery, and other diagnostic
procedures which carry associated risk.
MRI is a totally painless procedure
with no known side effects. Because no radiation or radioactive substances
are used, patients requiring frequent scans avoid the potential danger
of cumulative radiation exposure.