Why do we screen patients?

Our staff takes the necessary steps to ensure that each of our patients are safe to have an MRI. You will be asked several times before and during your appointment many MRI Safety questions prior to entering the MRI scan room. Outside factors can prevent you from having an MRI which include, but are not limited to, Pacemakers, Defibrillators, Shunts, metal fragments in eyes, prior surgeries, etc. Most often, metal in the body from previous surgeries can still be scanned but is not optimal for the higher field magnets such as a 3T scanner. For those patients being scanned with metal, we utilize a lower field strength magnet (1.2T Open) to obtain better images. We do understand that being asked the same questions repeatedly can be perceived as a hindrance but is VITAL to ensure patient safety. The dangers and negative outcomes could be severe within the strong magnetic field of the MRI scanner, or electronic malfunction of certain implanted components. Our staff from the Clinical Schedulers to the Technologists, and especially the Radiologists hold your safety in the highest regard at all times. 

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Does my whole body have to go into the machine?

The area of the body which we are interested in imaging is placed in the center of the magnetic field. If your MRI is of the leg (hip/knee/ankle/foot), you will enter the scanner feet first and your head will be out. MRI exams of the Abdomen and Pelvis also allow for patients to be positioned with the feet entering the scanner first (your head may or may not be out).  If your MRI is of the arm (shoulder/elbow/wrist/hand), you will enter the scanner head first. MRI exams of the Brain and Spine also require you enter head first.

When will my doctor have the results?

Our Radiologists will interpret your MRI and a report will be available for your doctor the next business day.

 

When can I obtain my results?

At the completion of your appointment, you will be given a CD of the images of your scan. You will be able to access your report within 48 hours on our patient portal via your secure log-in.

How long will the scan take?

While the length of the exam will vary, most procedures average 30-45 minutes each.

What is the weight limit of the scanners?

Our Wide Bore scanners will accommodate up to 450 pounds. And our Open MRI will accommodate up to 600 pounds.

What is the difference between an Open MRI and a Wide Bore MRI?

Open MRI scanners are designed to be open along the sides with the patient positioned beneath the magnet. Closed MRI scanners are designed with an imaging bore that encircles the patient. These scanners can further be broken down into two categories: conventional and wide-bore. Wide bore MRI scanners allow more room for patients and are a comfortable alternative for individuals who do not need an open MRI scanner but would like a little more room.

What days/hours are you open?

MRI of Reston's business hours:

• Monday thru Friday: 6:00 AM to 10:00 PM
  Saturday: As Needed

• Sunday: Closed

How many scanners do you have and what type are they?

We have four (4) MRI scanners. They are classified by their design and field strength.

• NEW State-of-the-Art 1.2T True Open MRI

• 1.2T True Open MRI

• New Premier 3T Wide Bore MRI

• 3T Wide Bore MRI

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