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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

What is an MRI?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a safe and painless test that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed pictures of the body's organs and structures.

Why an MRI? 

MRI is used to detect a variety of conditions, including problems of the brain, spinal cord, skeleton, chest, lungs, abdomen, pelvis, wrists, hands, ankles, and feet. In some cases, it can provide clear images of body parts that can't be seen as well with an X-ray, CAT scan, or ultrasound. 

An MRI's ability to highlight contrasts in soft tissue makes it useful in deciphering problems with joints, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons. MRI can also be used to identify infections and inflammatory conditions or to rule out problems such as tumors.

The Technology:

University of Vermont Health Network - Alice Hyde Medical Center utilizes a GE Signa Explorer 1.5 Tesla MRI machine, which is quieter than many other MRI machines, increasing patient comfort. This machine, installed in October 2016, reduces exam times while enhancing image quality to result in better diagnostic abilities. 

For Your Safety:

Patients must be screened for eligibility for MRI imaging. Because MRI uses powerful magnets, the presence of metal in your body could impact patient safety or compromise image quality.

Before having an MRI, inform the technologist if you have any metal or electronic devices inside your body, such as:

  • Pacemaker
  • Implantable heart defibrillator
  • Artificial heart valves
  • Metal joint prosthesis
  • Metal clip
  • Cochlear implants
  • A bullet, shrapnel or any other type of metal fragments

Operational Hours:

MRIs can be scheduled Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 5 p.m. 

Do you have questions?

If you have questions about an MRI, please contact MRI at (518) 481-2367.