What is an MRI?
MRI units are large, non-invasive devices that use radio waves and a strong magnetic field to provide clear, detailed images of internal organs and tissues.
What is MRI used for?
MRI generates very clear images of soft-tissue structures near and around bones that other imaging techniques, such as X-ray, cannot produce. This clarity makes it the most sensitive exam for spinal and joint problems. MRI is also used to diagnose and evaluate internal organs for various diseases and disorders.
McLaren Central Michigan's Board Certified Technical Staff uses the latest in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), the Toshiba Vantage Titan 1.5T MRI System.
This MRI system offers a more comfortable exam experience for patients while allowing medical staff to conduct high-quality MR imaging right here in Mt. Pleasant. The patient-friendly features comfort patients with claustrophobia, as the system has one of the largest and widest open bores available, nearly 20 percent larger than similar systems. The new MRI can accommodate patients small and large and has a table that can support up to 440 pounds. Providing plenty of shoulder and breathing room, there is more space around the patient's head, limiting the time they are fully enclosed.
It allows feet-first imaging capabilities for shoulder, lumbar and thoracic spine exams. New technology offers a dramatic reduction in acoustic noise for an improved patient experience, and motion correction software helps to eliminate involuntary patient motion during exams. It also provides higher quality MRI breast exams and biopsies, as well as exams focusing on blood vessels without the use of contrast dyes. McLaren Central Michigan also offers more sedation options for pediatric and extremely claustrophobic patients.
Benefits of the open-bore MRI:
- Strongest magnet in the area - produces high-quality images faster
- Provides higher quality MRI breast exams and biopsies
- The ultra-short open-bore is 20% larger than similar systems
- 70% of procedures can be performed feet-first, with the patient's head remaining outside the imaging bore
- Noise levels are reduced by up to 90%, alleviating patients' No. 1 complaint
- Uses contrast dye-free techniques
- The MRI table goes lower than 17 inches, better accommodating pediatric and geriatric patients
- Patients can raise their legs or lie on their side during the exam
Scheduled for an MRI? Here are some tips:
- Print and fill out the MRI Screening Checklist now and bring it along
to your appointment to save time the day of your MRI
- Wear comfortable clothing with no metal (if possible)
- Feel free to bring a music CD from home to listen to during your test
- Satellite radio is also available for your enjoyment
Appointments are available Monday through Friday, and can be made by calling McLaren Central Michigan's Central Scheduling at (989) 772-6878.
McLaren Central Michigan Diagnostic Imaging
1221 South Drive, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858
(989) 772 6734
Lumbar Spine
Typical image quality generated by an Open MRI unit
Lumbar Spine
Typical image quality generated by McLaren Central Michigan's Toshiba Vantage Titan 1.5T MRI System
Lumbar Spine (alternate view)
Typical image quality generated by an Open MRI unit
Lumbar Spine (alternate view)
Typical image quality generated by McLaren Central Michigan's Toshiba Vantage Titan 1.5T MRI System
McLaren Central Michigan Diagnostic Imaging
1221 South Drive, Mt. Pleasant, MI 48858
(989) 772 6734
Appointments are available Monday through Friday, and can be made by calling McLaren Central Michigan's Central Scheduling at (989) 772-6878.
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