3T Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
What is an MRI?
MRI is a diagnostic tool that utilizes a powerful magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to produce high quality images of internal body structures. This non-invasive procedure is regarded as an incredibly valuable tool for physicians to locate tumors and diagnose diseases as well as soft tissue injuries. To create these images, MRI machines temporarily realign the water molecules in your body. This allows those atoms to produce a signal when exposed to radio waves. This is how the images are produced.
What is a 3T MRI? What is wide-bore?
Beam Radiology is host to a 3T MRI machine, one of only a few in the province.
3T MRI, also known as 3 Tesla MRI, is a particularly advanced type of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), that produces more detailed images than the typical MRI. The 3T MRI has a more powerful magnet and the ability to produce superior quality images. The MRI at Beam is also a wide-bore MRI, which means there is more space for the patient within the machine. With this scanner we are able to provide exceptional quality, consistent result, and superior detection ability.
For patients with claustrophobia and/or anxiety:
Some patients who suffer from anxiety or claustrophobia may experience a level of discomfort while the exam is being performed. To help alleviate this, Beam utilizes a 3T Wide Bore MRI. This means that there is more space within the machine, which can help with feelings of claustrophobia. If you think this, or feelings of anxiety may be an issue for you, please let us know prior to your appointment as we can discuss options that can improve your experience. We are here to help.
MRI Screening Program
General MRI
Abdominal MRI
An abdominal MRI is used to assess abdominal organs including the liver, gallbladder & bile ducts, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, lymph nodes, and some blood vessels.
Arthrogram MRI
An MR Arthrogram is used to help detect any problems with joints and is most commonly used to look inside the shoulder, knee, wrist, elbow, ankle or hip. A contrast solution “dye” is injected into your joint to outline the soft tissue structures in the joint.
Brachial Plexus MRI
This MRI is used to detect pathology or damage to the Brachial Plexus caused by injury. This is done by assessing the status of the nerves, arteries, and veins in the area.
Brain MRI
An MRI of the brain is used to diagnose or evaluate irregularities such as tumors, residual impacts from injury or trauma, bleeding, swelling, cysts, aneurysms, dementia, multiple sclerosis, strokes, and infection.
Breast MRI
MR images with computer reformatting providing a detailed assessment for subtle cancers which may not be seen on mammogram or ultrasound. A pain free screening tool for patients with personal or family history of breast cancer, or other concerns such as breast implant leaks.
MRA Circle of Willis
An MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiogram) of the head is done to look at the blood vessels leading to the brain to check for an aneurysm, a clot, or a narrowing because of plaque.
Musculoskeletal (MSK) MRI
MSK MRI can be used to diagnose causes of pain, swelling or locking of a joint, issues with the spine or pelvis, and to evaluate soft tissues for masses or inflammation. In some cases, an injection may be performed before the MRI to provide better visualization of certain structures.
Pelvic MRI
Pelvic MRI offers a detailed assessment of the structures deep in the pelvis including the reproductive organs, bladder, bowel in the pelvic area, blood vessels, lymph nodes, and masses.
Prostate MRI
Prostate MRI is non-invasive and pain-free way to detect prostate condition and has been shown to be as accurate as a biopsy at detecting prostate cancers.
Spine MRI
MRI of the spine is used to diagnose and evaluate spinal abnormalities, injuries, and disease. MRI is the best available method to visualize the spinal cord, spinal nerves, compression fractures of the vertebrae, and any herniated discs.
Temporomandibular Joint (TMJ) MRI
TMJ MRI can be used to evaluate the components of this small and complex joint. MRI offers superior imaging of the TMJ due to its high resolution, and the ability to provide a dynamic assessment to demonstrate any abnormal motion of the joint.
Frequently asked questions:
- Brain & Spinal Cord
- Heart & Blood Vessels
- Bones & Joints
- Breasts
- Soft Tissue Masses
- Most Internal Organs
- Screening MRIs as part of the Beam Proactive Health Assessment Program
When you have reached the examination room, you will be placed on a motorized table that slides in and out of the MRI machine. When the machine is operational, you are the only person in the room. You are still able to communicate with the technologist and they are able to see the exam from a separate room.
When you are inside the MRI machine, a strong magnetic field is created and radio waves are targeted at your body. During your exam, you will not feel the magnetic field or radio waves, but you will hear a repetitive tapping or thumping noise. Earplugs can be given to patients if requested. During their MRI, patients may be asked to answer questions or complete small tasks with their fingers or toes as this may be useful in capturing the images requested.
Patients can expect their MRI to last anywhere from 15 minutes to 1 hour.
As MRI machines utilize powerful magnets, metal objects on or in the body may be affected. Please be sure to discuss any device, metal, or shrapnel in your body with your doctor, Beam care coordinator, and MRI technologist prior to your exam. If your implant or device came with an information card, please bring this to your appointment.
Examples of implants NOT compatible with MRI scanners include:
- Ear implants or hearing aides
- Brain aneurysm clips
- Metal coils or stents inserted in blood vessels
- Neurostimulators or implanted programmable devices
- Cardiac defibrillators and pacemakers
Other devices we ask that you discuss with your doctor, Beam care coordinator, and MRI technologist include:
- Artificial heart valves
- Implanted drug infusion ports or pumps
- Artificial limbs or joint prosthesis
- Metal pins, screws, plates, stents, or staples
- IUDs
- Permanent jewelry
- In general, please make us aware of any foreign object or device within your body.
As MRI’s utilize powerful magnets, metal or electronic objects inside the body may move from their original position or distort the images captured. The dark ink in tattoos is also known to distort images produced during your MRI. It is important to discuss any pre-existing health conditions prior to your exam to ensure an MRI is right for you.
MRI Pricing
$695 – First Body Area
$450 – Each Additional Body Area
$945 – Prostate
$945 – Arthrogram
$250 – Contrast (if required)
