MRI
MRIs serve a significant purpose at Union General Hospital. MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. We use MRIs to view detailed images of the body. Typically, MRIs are used to determine how severe an injury is, detect cancerous tumors, or simply to get a detailed look at what’s going on inside the body. The device itself uses a magnetic field combined with radio waves to generate detailed images of what’s going on inside certain areas of the body. The main difference between and MRI and a CT scan is how they obtain the images of your body. A CT scan uses X-ray technology, MRIs use magnets and radio waves.
What to Expect When Having an MRI...
Some of our patients worry about having an MRI. However, the process is painless. A patient lies down and is glided into the MRI machine. The only thing the patient will experience is the slight noise from the MRI machine. The entire process lasts only about half an hour. The final product is a 3-D image representing the area that was examined. This is extremely helpful for our doctors, as they are able to diagnose and treat patients accurately after utilizing this incredible piece of technology.
Types of MRI Uses
MRIs can be used for all of the following purposes:
- Head – MRIs can identify tumors, aneurysms, bleeding in the brain, or any damage associated with having a stroke.
- Spine – Discs and nerves can be seen clearly.
- Abdomen and Pelvis – The liver, kidneys, bladder and other organs in the abdomen can be assessed for blockages, infections, or tumors.
- Blood Vessels – Blockages are able to be identified, among other things.
- Bones and Joints – MRIs can check for things like arthritis, bone marrow issues, torn ligaments, or infections in the bones and joints.
If you have questions, or believe you or a loved one is in need of an MRI, please contact us today.
 | MRI Patient History Form |