Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses pulsed radio frequency and magnets to create images used for screening and diagnosis. To detect problems with blood vessels and blood flow, Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA), is also available.

Our advanced equipment provides clearer images, which means quicker, more precise diagnoses, even for challenging diseases and conditions such as:

• Stroke
• Brain diseases
• Vascular diseases
• Spinal cord injuries
• Joint injuries
• Liver diseases
• Prostate cancer
• Disk herniation
• Heart disease
• Breast cancer
• Internal organs

During an MRI, you will:

• Be asked to remove jewelry, clothing, eyeglasses, removable dental work, hearing aids, etc.
• Be given a hospital gown to wear if you are required to remove your clothing.
• Have an intravenous (IV) line inserted in your hand or arm if you are having an MRI with contrast dye.
• Lie on a table that slides into a long, tube-like machine.
• Be able to see your MRI technician through a window.
• Wear a headset or earplugs to reduce the machine's noise levels.
• Be asked to remain very still so the scan can create accurate images.

An MRI scan is painless, though you may feel discomfort from having to lie still for an extended period of time. Your technician will ensure that you are as comfortable as possible.

Excellence in imaging

Northwestern Medicine Diagnostic Imaging MRI services are accredited by the American College of Radiology and have earned a "5-star" rating in patient satisfaction.

Northwestern Medicine specialists are committed to safe and effective X-ray exposure using the As Low As Reasonably Achievable (ALARA) philosophy and featuring new technologies that give you:

• More enhanced images
• More detailed images
• Greater capacity
• A more comfortable experience