What makes the Extremity MRI different?

You’ll be having an extremity MRI scan to help determine more about the nature and extent of an extremity injury or problem. Your healthcare provider has decided to have your exam done on the GE Healthcare Optima MR430s MRI which not only produces high quality images, it enables patients to be more relaxed and comfortable.

The GE Optima MR430s is a revolution in extremity imaging. The 1.5 Tesla, high-field Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) examination can be done sitting down in the comfort of a reclining lounge chair. Only the body part being scanned goes into the small magnets. This dedicated MR system is capable of imaging the knee, foot, ankle, elbow, hand and wrist.

See for yourself…

 (click image to view video)

How should you prepare?

Magnet Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a imaging procedure that uses a powerful magnetic field and radio frequencies to create detailed images of your body. Not everyone can have an MRI scan. Having any of the following or similar conditions may prevent you from having this type of scan:

• Pregnancy
• Surgical Staples or Aneurism Clips
• Metal Plates
• Metal Fragments from Work or Military
• Bone or Joint Replacements
• Cardiac Pacemaker
• Implanted Defibrillator 

Consult with your doctor if any of these apply to you. Also, Let us know if you have any tattoos, permanent eyeliner, multiple metal tooth fillings or orthodontic braces. Remove items in your pockets that may be affected. The magnetic field will erase the magnetic strip information on credit cards.

Please make arrangements to keep your children at home on the day of your appointment.

How do I prepare for my exam?
You’ll be glad to know that there is no fasting or dietary preparation necessary for your exam with the Optima MR430s. Your only preparation is in what you wear. Since the MRI uses a strong magnet, you should not wear clothes that have snaps, buttons, zippers or other fasteners made from metal. We recommend loosing fitting jogging / sweats, or shorts if you are having a knee MRI.               

For children, larger individuals or people with claustrophobia, the extremity MRI offers the ultimate experience with an "open MRI" feeling. The scanner allows you to relax, reclining in a comfortable chair, with only your extremity being scanned. Yes, you can sit back, and relax. A music system with headset is also provided for added comfort.

How long will the exam last?
The images from the procedure will be reviewed by a radiologist who will send a report to your healthcare provider.

Most exams with the Optima MR430s last around 45 minutes. When the exam is completed, you will be asked to wait until it is determined whether any additional images are required. 

Which locations provide this service?

• Diagnostic Imaging Northwest - Good Samaritan Medical Building
  1450 5th Street SE, Suite 4600
  
  Appointments may be scheduled by your referring provider's office. For your appointment, you be will seen at Diagnostic Imaging Northwest's newest facility, located in the new Good Samaritan Medical Building, located at 1450 5th Street SE, Suite 4600 in Puyallup.
  
  General parking is on 5th Street, just across from the medical building. There is a drop-off area for patients directly in front of the building; and handicap parking is available in the parking lot in front of the building entrance.

Diagnostic Imaging Northwest is accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR) in MRI.

If you have additional questions, contact scheduling at:  253-841-4353.