MRI - Frequently Asked Questions by Physicians

What is the field strength of your magnet(s)?
Where do you have MRI?
What is MRA?
What types of MRI scans does WRA perform?
What is the weight maximum?
Can you accommodate my claustrophobic patients?
Can you take stat patients?
Do you have special referral forms for MRI exams?
Will you perform MRI scans on children?
Can I get results the same day as my patient is scanned?


What is the field strength of your magnet(s)?
1.5 Tesla, the highest field strength of any commonly used MRI.




Where do you have MRI?
Our MRI facilities are located in Virginia at 3022 Williams Drive, Suite 104, Fairfax; Washington, DC at 2141 K Street, NW, Suites 100 and 111; and in Maryland at 4445 Willard Avenue, Suite 200, Chevy Chase.




What is MRA?
Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) is a non-invasive technique on the MRI scanner to image blood vessels of any body part, most commonly those in the head and neck. MRA is an alternative to conventional angiography which requires the insertion of needles and catheters into the blood vessels with the use of x-ray.




What types of MRI scans does WRA perform?
Aside from the standard neurological and orthopedic applications, WRA performs magnetic resonance angiography, breast imaging, prostate studies, and general abdominal and pelvic exams. Our MR trained radiologists will be happy to consult with you regarding the appropriate application.




What is the weight maximum?
Our 1.5 Tesla magnets have the largest opening of any high-field magnet available. Our DC and Chevy Chase offices will accommodate patients up to 480 pounds. Our scanner at Fairfax will accommodate patients up to 350 pounds




Can you accommodate my claustrophobic patients?
Sedation must be pre-arranged with the nurse at the clinical location prior to the exam being performed. If the patient is feeling claustrophobic during the exam, we will need to reschedule the patient and ask them to consult their physician for sedation prior to the next exam. You may reach our nurse for the 2141 K Street office at 202-785-4674, our Chevy Chase office at 301-654-4242, and Fairfax office at 703-698-8800.




Can you take "stat" patients?
Many times we can see patients immediately, but in almost all cases we can see the patient on the same day requested if necessary.




Do you have special referral forms for MRI exams?
Yes. We have detailed 5 1/2 x 8 1/2 written orders for MRI only. Our standard blue referral form can be used as well. Call us or click here to order forms on-line.




Will you perform MRI scans on children?
WRA will perform MRI scans on children as young as 5 years old.




Can I get results the same day as my patient is scanned?
Yes. WRA has a radiologist on site from 7:30 a.m. until 5 p.m. so wet readings are easily accommodated.