The MRI department at WVMC has expanded with the addition of a new Phillips Panorama High-Field Open MRI Scanner.
 This scanner offers a wide-open environment with better image quality than any other open MRI. The new scanner is ideal for larger patients, children, and those who suffer from claustrophobia.
The open design of the new scanner is complemented by a magnificent Willamette Valley mural painted by local artist Candace Cameron.
With two top-notch MRI scanners now available, patients can be scheduled without delay, providing prompt, accurate diagnosis.
The MRI department is supervised by Medical Director David Siepmann MD, a fellowship-trained MRI specialist with McMinnville Imaging Associates.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) FAQs
Please browse our most frequently asked questions. If you have a question that is not answered here, call your healthcare provider or 503.435.6380.
Q:What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)?
A:MRI is a technology that uses a magnet and radio waves, rather than radiation, to produce highly detailed images of the body in multiple cross-sectional planes.
TOP
Q:What is it used for?
A:It is commonly used to evaluate disorders and conditions of the brain, spinal cord, heart, bones and joints, soft tissue, and blood vessels that may not be visible on a CT scan. MR imaging is often used in sports injury cases. MRI may also be used to examine breast tissue. As the technology develops, MRI can provide even more diagnostic information, including evaluation of the function, as well as structure, of organs.
TOP
Q:Is it safe?
A:Yes. Because it does not use radiation, MRI is frequently used for imaging the pelvis of both male and female patients. As with any radiology procedure, pregnant women should consult with their physician before undergoing an MRI exam. Generally, MRI imaging is not performed on women in the early phase of pregnancy. Also, on some occasions a contrasting agent (dye) is used. Rarely these agents can cause an allergic reaction. Patients must inform their physician or the radiology staff of prior allergic reactions or certain conditions, such as diabetes, asthma, or pregnancy.
TOP
Q:What is the exam like?
A:The patient is positioned on a table that slides into the scanner. The patient will be asked to lie still for up to several minutes while the image sequence is being processed. Pediatric patients may need to be sedated because motion degrades the images. Occasionally, a contrast agent (a dye) will be administered to a patient intravenously, which helps to enhance visualization of certain regions of the body. Rarely these agents can cause an allergic reaction. Patients must inform their physician or the radiology staff of prior allergic reactions or certain conditions, such as diabetes, asthma, or pregnancy.
TOP
Q:Will I feel claustrophobic?
A:While most patients are comfortable in the “flared bore” GE Signa scanner, the tube design does make some patients feel claustrophobic. The new Philips Panorama High Field Open scanner allows us to offer these patients a top-quality scan in a wide-open environment. This allows us to avoid sedation that might otherwise be required for severely claustrophobic patients.
TOP
Q:Where do I go for my appointment?
A:Check in at the radiology desk on the main floor of the hospital. For directions to the hospital, click here.
TOP
Q:How long does an MRI take?
A:Generally, an MRI exam can take anywhere from 30-45 minutes to perform.
TOP
Q:How would I prepare for an MRI?
A:The patient requires minimum preparation for an MRI scan; however, because metallic objects interfere with the exam, jewelry, eyeglasses, and dental retainers must be removed. The radiology staff also needs to know whether the patient has surgical pins or plates, pacemakers, or any other metallic objects lodged inside the body, such as shrapnel.
TOP
Q:What if I have to reschedule my appointment?
A:Call 503.435.6380, Monday through Friday between the hours of 7:30 am and 5 pm.
TOP
Q:How will I get the results of my exam?
A:All scans will be read by the board-certified diagnostic radiologists of McMinnville Imaging Associates. A transcribed report will be forwarded to your healthcare provider within two working days. Your healthcare provider will discuss the results with you.
TOP
|