MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging
Greenwich Hospital offers 1.5 Tesla and 3.0 Tesla MRI machines for precise imaging to suit a variety of conditions and personal preferences.
Our MRI Technologists
Our MRI technologists have advanced training to keep patients safe and comfortable while they collect the images ordered by the physician. All are licensed by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and the State of Connecticut and many hold advanced MRI accreditations as well. These technologists closely follow a physician's instructions, prepare and operate MRI equipment, position and comfort patients and effectively record the requested diagnostic images.
What is an MRI
MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a diagnostic test that uses a strong magnetic field and rapid pulses of radio waves. These produce high quality two or three-dimensional images of specific areas inside the body. No X-rays are involved.
What is an MRA
Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) uses MRI technology to produce detailed images of blood vessels throughout the body. No catheters are used, such as in a traditional angiogram. Blockages and enlargements of arteries can be spotted easily, quickly, and without incisions.
Why You Would Need An MRI
MRI allows the doctor to see detailed images of soft-tissue structures near and around bones from any angle. It is widely used to diagnose sports-related injuries because it can detect very small tears in ligaments and muscles. It can also help to diagnose heart problems, brain and nervous system disorders, certain types of cancer, and many other conditions.
What Could Keep You from Getting an MRI?
If you have a pacemaker, you need to consult with your physician. All joint replacements/implants will be safe. Other metallic implants (aneurysm clips, hearing implants, or other non-joint implants) may not be MRI safe. Check with your doctor if you are pregnant or have any loose metal in your body (eye injury, shrapnel, etc.).
What You Can Expect
Upon your arrival in the MRI suite, the technologist will show you to a changing room where you will discuss your medical history. At this time the technologist will also review your safety questionnaire. This is a very good time to ask any questions. Once you are ready for your test you will be brought to the scan room. We will use a hand held wand to scan for any ferrous metal and then make you as comfortable as possible for your test.
An MRI is not physically painful in any way. However, some patients feel uncomfortable in the MRI enclosure or with the knocking sound made by the magnet as images are gathered.
Comfort Measures: Greenwich Hospital makes every effort to help patients feel at ease during their exam. Earplugs are provided to minimize the noise made by the testing equipment. Mirrors allow patients to see outside (for some exams) of the scanning device. Our intercom system allows for constant communication with the technologist. During this time, patients simply lie still in the imaging machine.
For outpatient services:
Long Ridge Medical Center
260 Long Ridge Road
Stamford, CT
475-240-5762
The Greenwich Hospital
5 Perryridge Road
Greenwich, CT
203-863-4710
Contrast Agent: Some exams require an injection of a "contrast agent" to better view certain areas of the body, such as blood vessels. No special diet or preparation is needed beforehand.
The MRI procedure takes between 30 and 90 minutes.
For those who may be waiting for you...
Beepers are available to individuals who are waiting for a friend or family member to have an imaging exam completed at the hospital. This allows us to be in touch in case they would like to leave the reception area for a while. Ask the Diagnostic Imaging receptionist for details.
