MRI Department
Phone 1-570-517-3760
Fax     1-570-517-0257

Magnetic Resonance Imaging, generally known as MRI, is the modern approach to physical condition diagnosis that produces clear images of the human body without the use of X-rays. It enables physicians to detect developing diseases and abnormalities at an early stage as well as to determine the condition and possible treatment of internal injuries. With our Open Extremity MRI, you will not encounter any tubes or tunnels, as this unit is designed to go over only the affected area. It is one of the simplest and most comfortable exams and requires only a short amount of time to complete with results usually available by the next day. An MRI technologist remains in close contact with the patient throughout the procedure to respond to any questions or concerns.

If you have been scheduled for an MRI
• Please arrive 15 minutes prior to your scan time.
• Examination time depends on the part of the body being examined,
but typically ranges from 30 - 40 minutes. You will be here for approximately 45 minutes.
• Please wear comfortable clothing that does not have any zippers or snaps. You may be asked to undress and put on a hospital gown.
• You will not be able to take anything into the MRI with you. You will be asked to remove all jewelry, hairpins, eyeglasses and hearing aids.
• Please DO NOT bring children under the age of 12 unless you have an adult with you to supervise them.

Important Facts
• If you are claustrophobic or experience pain when lying down on your back for more than 30 minutes, let your doctor know. He may prescribe a relaxant or pain medication for you.
• Patients who have other types of metal implants and patients who have been exposed to shrapnel or whose eyes have been exposed to metal shavings also might not be a candidate for MRI.
• Although MRI is a safe procedure for most patients, please let us know if you are pregnant.
• Before the exam the MR technologist will explain the procedure to you and answer any questions you may have.
• An MR technologist, also known as a radiologic technologist, is a skilled medical professional who has received specialized education in the areas of anatomy, patient positioning, patient care, imaging techniques, and MR procedures.
• For some types of MR exams, the technologist wraps a special coil around the body part being examined. The technologist will position you on a padded moveable table that slides into the opening of the scanner.
• You will feel nothing during the scan. You may hear humming, thumping, clicking, and knocking sounds from the equipment. The room may be dimly lit and cold. We supply the blankets! You may want to wear socks.
• You will be asked to remain as STILL AS POSSIBLE throughout the sequence. If there is movement, you may have to have some of the sequences repeated, lengthening the time of your MRI.