What's a MRA?
Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) is another procedure performed at Howard Open MRI Center using the same state-of-the-art equipment. MRA studies produce excellent images of various blood vessels.

What is an Open MRI?
An Open MRI is an alternative to cramped, noisy, and uncomfortable MRI examinations. Our "Open" MRI system makes it possible for you to come to a facility where you can be examined --- without the fear of being placed in a narrow tube for an extended period of time. This advanced MRI system is ideal for pediatric, elderly, claustrophobic, anxious, and obese patients up to 440 pounds depending on their specific body shape, or anyone who would prefer not to go into a closed system. The result? More and more people are choosing Howard Open MRI Center because it's simply a more comfortable experience!

How does the MRI actually work?

1.	The nuclei of a patient's hydrogen atoms align with the scanner's magnetic field.
2.	Pulses of radio waves are sent into the scanner and knock these hydrogen nuclei out of their normal position.
3.	After the radio wave pulsing stops, the nuclei realign back into proper position.
4.	During the realignment process, the nuclei send out signals. These signals are captured by the computer system that analyzes and translates them into an image of the body part being scanned.
5.	The images appear on a viewing monitor and are archived on optical disk.
6.	Radiologists interpret the images on film or directly from a viewing station. They dictate a report of the findings. The report is sent to the patient's referring physician.

Are there any patient conditions that may prevent an MRI?
MRIs pose no risk to most patients. However, you may be excluded from a study under certain conditions. Be sure to tell the person scheduling the appointment if any of the following pertain to you:

	Pacemaker, pacer wires, or artificial heart valve
	Intracranial aneurysm clips
	Metal in the eyes
	Metal objects within the body, such as pins, plates, implants, or shrapnel
	Metallic medication patches

Can I eat before an MRI?
No special preparation is required for your MRI. We suggest that you:

	Eat normally. No fasting is required.
	Take any needed medication.
	Limit liquids you consume since you will need to lie very still for 30 to 60 minutes.
	Leave jewelry and other valuables at home.

What if I am pregnant?
Our policy is not to scan during the first trimester of pregnancy. If you think you may be pregnant, you must have a negative pregnancy test done or wait until your next menstrual period before being scanned. In some rare instances, it is possible to be scanned in the first trimester if your referring physician and our radiologist both feel that an MRI is the test of choice. Although there are no known side effects of MRI, we do not recommend MRI scanning in the first trimester of pregnancy, as the fetus is growing rapidly during this period. There is less concern during the second and third trimester of pregnancy.

What if I am breast-feeding?
If you are breast-feeding, you may have a MRI scan without contrast without concern. If your scan requires a contrast injection as part of the study, you should plan to bottle-feed your baby for 48 hours after the test is complete. The contrast agent will pass through your body after 48 hours, and you may then resume breast-feeding.

What's the minimum age for an MRI?
During an MRI procedure, your child needs to remain still. We ask parents if their child is a "good listener" and will follow directions. If you believe your child will lie still when asked, the scan will be successful. Howard Open MRI Center does not administer sedatives. You may want to consult your physician regarding a mild sedative if you believe that necessary.

Can a loved one sit in with the patient?
Yes. Our spacious scan room allows a parent, friend or other individual to sit along side the patient. Many patients are relieved to be next to or even holding hands with a loved one. Everyone entering the scanning room must be clear of metal and will be screened before entering the room

What do I need to bring with me for my appointment?
Bring insurance cards, doctor's order or prescription, or a referral from your Primary Care Physician if your insurance program so requires. Check with your doctor's office if your insurance requires a preauthorization for an MRI. You may be asked to any bring prior studies to compare with your MRI films. For Workers Compensation and auto accident cases, Howard Open MRI Center needs to obtain pre-authorization prior to your MRI so please have all of the information handy when you call us for an appointment.

What will happen during my appointment?
It's very important that you arrive on time for your MRI exam. Upon arrival:

	A member of our staff will explain several forms to complete. Adequate time is allowed for you to complete paperwork
	Please let us know if anyone will accompany you into the scan room, and if your doctor prescribed medication for the exam.
	Purses, wallets and other valuables will be secured in a locker in the dressing room.
	Eyeglasses, hearing aids, or removable dental work will be stored in a dressing room locker.
	You may be asked to change into a hospital gown and pants.
	A technologist will review your medical history and answer any questions you may have.

What if my specialist needs copies of my films?
If after your MRI, your physician refers you to a specialist that needs copies of your films, please contact us 24 hours in advance. Since we are filmless, your MRI images will be pulled from optical disk and printed on film. If a specialist refers you to Howard Open MRI Center, you will receive a set of films at the time of your scan. Take the films with you to your next appointment with your specialist. The set of films is yours to keep for physician consultations. If you damage or lose your films, there is a $75 charge for an additional set.