MRI Lower Back Farmington | XRANM

WHAT IS MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive, painless procedure in which radio waves and a magnetic field are assisted by a computer to create remarkably clear and detailed pictures of internal organs and tissues without the use of radiation. Each MRI produces hundreds of pictures from side-to-side, top-to-bottom and front-to-back. These pictures show the difference between normal and diseased tissue and enable radiologists to determine what the inside of a particular structure looks like. This makes it very useful in diagnosing abnormalities. The technique has proven very valuable for the diagnosis of many conditions in all parts of the body including cancer, heart and vascular disease, stroke, breast disease, joint and musculoskeletal disorders.

We provide “state-of-the-art” MRI with an 18 channel system to include MRI breast imaging, breast biopsy, MRCP, body, musculoskeletal, Central Nervous System, and MR angiography/runoffs. We also offer high quality “Same Day MRI services” at our six locations throughout the state.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT?

The MRI exam can be one of the easiest and most comfortable exams you experience. The technologist will ask you to lie on a table that will move into the tube-shaped scanner, that is open at both ends, after you have been comfortably positioned. Your technologist will watch you through an observation window and will be able to communicate with you at all times. The scanner makes tapping noises that change with the various imaging sequences. Remaining still during the exam is extremely important in order to obtain clear images.
When scanning is complete, the technologist will return to help you from the table. Your exam will take about 30 to 60 minutes, after which you will be able to return to your normal activities.

HOW SHOULD I PREPARE?

Usually there are no special preparations or diet instructions prior to your MRI exam. However, there are some exams that may require you to avoid normal eating or drinking for a period of time. You should continue medications prescribed by your doctor unless informed otherwise. You may be asked to change into a gown to eliminate the chance of artifacts from your clothing. Any metal such as earrings, eyeglasses, or hairpins must be removed. Women should always inform their technologist if there is any possibility of pregnancy. If your are claustrophobic please bring a driver with you.
Please inform your doctor or the technologist if you have any of the following that may prevent you from undergoing an MRI exam:

• Pacemaker
• Aneurysm clips
• A history of working with metal
• An implanted drug infusion device
• Metallic plates, pins, screws or other implants (usually do not cause a problem if they have been in place more than 4-6 weeks)
  
  

  SERVICE LOCATIONS

  MRI is available at Alamogordo Imaging Center, El Camino Imaging Center,  Heights MRI Center, Northwest Imaging Center, X-Ray Associates at Farmington and X-Ray Associates at Santa Fe.

  Common MRI Procedures

  LOWER BACK MRI:

  Also known as a lumbar MRI, this procedure focuses on the lumbosacral section of your spine. This area of the body is a region where back problems and pain are known to frequently originate from. If your doctor suspects a problem with your spine, they are likely to recommend that you undergo this particular service. If you’re already planning on having spinal surgery, it is also probable that they will order a MRI lower back farmington for you, as the results will help them considerably in building an ideal course of action for your operation, as well as ensure the best possible outcome.

  Individuals suffering from multiple sclerosis, spinal birth defects, disk herniation, sciatica, or an injury to the spine are also candidates who may benefit from the information that this procedure provides. In addition, it can help pinpoint the origin of symptoms which include: back pain that occurs alongside fever, bladder or urination problems, continuous and/or severe back or pelvic pain, and leg abnormalities that may present as weakness or a numb sensation. This MRI is extremely useful in situations where your doctor suspects that you may be showing signs of brain or spinal cancer, as well. A lumbar scan is one of the best available tools for early cancer detection in these areas of the body.