Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a radiological examination that uses a magnetic field as well as radio waves that make it possible to produce 2D and 3D images of the internal organs of the body. These images are extremely precise and allow doctors specializing in diagnostic radiology to make their diagnoses. They can be images of the brain, spine, abdomen, pelvis, joints, or muscles. Images of tumours can also be produced.
Very safe, non-invasive, and painless, magnetic resonance imaging is approved by Health Canada.
Our clinic offers MRI examinations covering the following anatomical regions:
Magnetic resonance imaging is recommended when a doctor suspects a medical problem that is not detectable by a physical examination or another medical technology (ultrasound, x-ray, or CT scan). Magnetic resonance imaging makes it possible to:
During your magnetic resonance imaging examination, you will be asked to lie down on a mobile exam table. To help you remain in the immobile position required for the images to be clear, cushions or Velcro straps may be used. For an examination of the head, a device will allow it to be held in position.
The exam table will then slide into an illuminated and ventilated cylinder in which the imaging device will conduct a scan to take the different images. You may be asked to hold your breath at times to allow the images to be clearer.
You can wear ear plugs to reduce the noise caused by the device or listen to your favourite music. It will be possible to speak to the technologist at all times via intercom, even if they are in the next room in front of the computer.
During the MRI examination, it is sometimes necessary to inject gadolinium (a dye) into a vein in the arm to help better detect certain anomalies.
A magnetic resonance imaging examination usually takes 30 minutes, but it can take longer depending on the area of the body targeted and the protocol chosen by the radiologist. Imagerie des Pionniers has very recently acquired a new software that may reduce acquisitions time by half. Some exams take 15 minutes or less, which is unheard of for complete exams.
It should be noted that the device used at Imagerie des Pionniers is next-generation and has a much wider opening than some MRI machines used elsewhere, which allows the patient to be more comfortable.
During an MRI, it is mandatory to wear clothing without any metal buttons or zippers and to remove any jewellery, hair clips, or metal accessories. Credit or debit cards with magnetic strips are prohibited in the examination room, as are hearing aids or dental prosthetics. You may be asked to wear a hospital gown or to remove certain clothing, depending on the part of the body to be examined.
Unless otherwise specified, you can eat, drink, and take medications as usual. Only MRIs of the abdomen and pelvis require you to fast (no eating or drinking) for 6 hours before the examination.
Since magnetic resonance imaging does not use radiation, no side effects are to be expected. The machine generates noise, and a sense of warmth may be felt by the patient. The gadolinium that is sometimes used may cause an allergic reaction, which is rare and usually minor.
Contact our team at 450-581-1424 to make an appointment for an MRI in Terrebonne. We will be pleased to answer all your questions about how your examination will proceed.