The first MRI performed on a patient occurred in 1977. Since then, medical professionals have completed approximately 30 million scans annually in the US.
Although an MRI is a standard medical tool to detect illnesses and injuries, some myths have developed regarding MRI.
1. MRIs Expose you to Radiation.
No! Unlike X-rays and CT scans, MRIs do not expose you to radiation. In addition, because radiation is not used, there is no risk of exposure to radiation during an MRI procedure. MRIs use a strong magnetic field and radio waves to take images. The MRI scanner is a metal cylinder surrounded by a strong magnetic field. During the MRI, you will lie on a table that can slide in and out of the cylinder. An MRI is loud; patients may relate the sound too loud knocking. Therefore, headphones are provided to muffle the sound with music and communicate between MRI Technologist and patient.
2. MRIs are Only Used for Injuries.
Many know someone who received an MRI for an injury. However, MRIs are also used for patients with mental conditions like Alzheimer's, certain cancers, brain tumors, infection, and stroke. In addition, it can detect issues in the arteries and veins, including aneurysms and blockages of blood vessels.
3. People with Tattoos Can't Get MRIs.
While some tattoo ink contains metal traces, most tattoos are safe in an MRI scanner. Inform your MRI Tech if you have a tattoo, and speak up immediately if you feel any discomfort or heat in your tattoo during the scan. It is standard for the technologist or radiologist to provide a screening form for their patients to disclose any information, such as tattoos, piercings, or implants, to determine if a patient is approved for scanning.
4. Mobile MRIs Produce Poor Image Quality
An MRI coach is an excellent alternative if your facility has building constraints. They can give you the capabilities without renovating. Many hospitals may not have the space or the budget for a whole construction project. A mobile MRI can provide excellent images that are equal to or better in certain circumstances. Captive Radiology ensures our mobile MRIs provide high-quality imaging.
5. Mobile MRIs Don't Provide a Positive Experience
The patient experience will vary from site to site. Some facilities have a bay where a mobile service can pull up; some have a sealed air bridge, creating a seamless experience like walking into another room. Some don't have space near their building and will have to move patients elsewhere. However, there are other factors to providing a patient experience than just the space. An MRI can be a stressful experience for a patient; our Technologists do their best to make their patients feel as comfortable as possible. A warm smile or kind words can make all the difference.
Learn more about Captive Radiology's services here!