Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
What is an MRI?
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging procedure that produces extremely detailed pictures of internal body structures. It allows doctors to check for abnormalities and diagnose medical conditions, such as orthopedic injuries and conditions. At Imaging Partners of St. Peters, we specialize in orthopedic MRIs that are convenient for residents of St. Charles County, Missouri and surrounding communities.
MRI machines use a high-powered magnetic field and radio waves to send signals to a computer where detailed and reliable images of the body are created. These images are enhanced and then stored in the computer. MRI scans may be used for almost any part of the body, including the spine, upper extremities (arms, shoulders, elbows, hands, wrists), and lower extremities (legs, hips, knees, ankles, feet).
Orthopedic MRI Scans
MRIs are used in orthopedics to view the soft tissues of the musculoskeletal system, which includes ligaments, tendons, and muscles of your body, whereas X-rays can only view the hard tissues (bones) of your body. Since there is no radiation involved like there is during an x-ray, MRIs are completely safe.
Open MRI
When a traditional closed MRI machine is used, the patient lies on an exam table that slides into the center of a large cylinder-shaped tube surrounded by a circular magnet in which your whole body is enclosed. At Imaging Partners of St. Peters, we use a Siemens 1.5T Symphony Short Bore MRI, which is shorter and wider than a traditional MRI unit. Only the body part being scanned is inside the magnet.
The open architecture of the machine significantly enhances your comfort and is much less claustrophobic than a traditional MRI. In addition, the strength of the 1.5T magnetic field allows for shorter MRI scan times yet produces exceptional image resolution. Learn more about what to expect during an MRI.
Contact Us for MRI Scans in St. Peters, MO
If you have any questions regarding the MRI equipment at Imaging Partners of St. Peters, feel free to call us at (636) 229-4247 or contact us online and one of our friendly staff members will be glad to assist you.
