MRI

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a powerful magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to produce detailed pictures of the body’s internal structures that are clearer, more detailed and more likely in some instances to identify and accurately characterize disease than other imaging methods without the use of radiation.

Learn More About MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) produces images of the body’s internal structures by passing radio waves through a powerful magnetic field. Differing frequencies of radio waves are produced by the different body structures, in return, and these are mapped and converted into digital images by a computer. MRI is especially good for imaging soft tissues in the body, including the brain, nerves, muscles, organs.

Through Tallahassee Diagnostic Imaging, RAoT features the latest, most advanced technology to benefit patients by offering you quality images to assist your clinician in your diagnosis and treatment plan. The latest MRI designs were created with your comfort in mind.

How do I prepare?

Since you will be positioned within a large, very strong magnet, you must remove all loose metal objects. Doing so is important for your safety as well as that of our staff, and for proper functioning of the equipment. You may be asked to change into a gown unless you are wearing clothing that is metal-free. You will need to complete a detailed screening sheet, on which you will be asked whether or not you have any metal or other devices implanted in your body that may interfere with the scan or cause injury to you. If you have any concerns or questions about that aspect of the procedure, please ask the technologist before you enter the room. We also will be happy to answer your questions by telephone at any time before your appointment. Some types of scans require fasting beforehand. You will be instructed if fasting is necessary for your procedure. Patients not receiving sedation should arrive 30 minutes prior to your exam time in order to register. Do not take prescribed claustrophobia medication until after paperwork has been filled out and you are instructed to do so by the technologist. All patients receiving claustrophobia medication must have someone with them to drive them home after the procedure.

Please let us know if you have any of the following:

  • Cardiac Pacemaker
  • Spinal, Bladder or other Neurostimulator
  • Eye Implants or metal ear implants
  • Any metal implants activated electronically, magnetically, or mechanically
  • Aneurysm clips
  • Penile implant
  • Shrapnel or non-removed bullet
  • Pregnancy
  • Claustrophobia
  • Any metal puncture(s) or fragment(s) in the eye
  • Pain or other medication patches
  • Continuous Glucose Monitor
When Will I Receive Results?

Your exam will be reviewed by one of our board-certified radiologists, who will interpret the images and generate a detailed report. This report will be sent to your referring physician within five business days. Once finalized, your results will also be available through our online patient portal for your review and reference. If you have any questions or would like to discuss your results, please contact your referring doctor directly.

What should I expect?

During an MRI exam, you will lie on a moveable exam table that will slowly move into the machine. This procedure is non-invasive and there is no pain associated with this exam. Some of the common distractions or discomforts include the loud tapping noises that are often made by the machine or the close proximity to the MRI machine. For patients who are claustrophobic or who become uncomfortable in these situations, they may be prescribed a mild sedative to be taken before the exam.

You also may notice a warm feeling in the area being studied. This is normal but you should not be afraid to communicate to the technologist if it bothers you. A technologist will always be available, monitoring you throughout the exam if any concerns arise.

Because an MRI exam takes images or “slices” from various angles, several sequences or sets of images will be taken. Each sequence will last from one to 10 minutes, and the technologist will inform you before the scanning noise begins. The total exam time for a scan can range from 30 to 60 minutes. You must lie very still during each sequence, in order to produce clear, diagnostic images.

For additional comfort, a family member or friend may accompany young or elderly patients during the MRI. Companion must be 18 or older and must be screened before entering the exam room.

Depending on your symptoms or prior medical history you may be given an intravenous contrast medium for your scan. The technologist will explain this procedure to you if necessary.

Which locations offer MRI services?

Tallahassee Diagnostic Imaging inside Radiology Associates
1st Floor – Please check in at the TDI Desk to the left of the lobby entrance
1600 Phillips Road
Tallahassee, FL 32308
free parking

Tallahassee Diagnostic Imaging inside Tallahassee Memorial Hospital
1300 Miccosukee Rd.
Tallahassee, FL 32308
Please check in at the Hospital Admittance, and someone will escort you to the Imaging Center. There is a waiting room for family and friends inside the TDI Imaging Center at TMH, provided for your convenience. Parking is available in the patient garage. The charge for parking is $1.

Express MRI
2459 Mahan Drive
Tallahassee, FL 32308
free parking