MRI - Frequently Asked Questions by Patients

What is MRI?
What is MRA?
What is an MRI like?
Who performs an MRI?
What are the common uses of MRI?
What is the difference between an MRI and a CAT scan?
Is MRI safe?
How do I prepare for an MRI?
Can anyone have an MRI?
How and when will I know the results of my MRI scan?
Why should I come to WRA MRI rather than another MRI facility?
Where is WRA MRI located?

What is MRI?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is another way of producing precise images of the body's internal organs without the use of x-rays. The machine generates high-resolution images which appear as a slice of anatomy. MRI uses a large magnet, radio frequencies, and a computer to produce its images. The computer processes these signals to produce highly detailed images of your anatomy. MRI is also capable of producing those images in an infinite number of projections throughout the body. These images are useful in the early discovery and treatment of many conditions and diseases.

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 is an MRI like?
You will lie on a padded scanner bed and WRA’s technologist will properly position the part of your body to be scanned and make sure you are relaxed and comfortable. Our technologist will provide you with music of your choice or feel free to bring your favorite relaxing CD. Based on the type of MRI you are having and the number of images required, scans will last 20-45 minutes.

Who performs an MRI?
A certified MRI technologist will assist you in preparing for the exam and placing you on the scanner bed. The exam will be conducted based on the instructions from a board certified radiologist who subspecializes in magnetic resonance imaging. The WRA radiologists who interpret the images have all received specialized training in MRI and have served as faculty in world renowned academic institutions. Unlike many other MRI facilities, a radiologist is on-site and available for consultation at all times.

What are the common uses of MRI?
With MRI, it is possible to see with unparalleled clarity the smallest structures in the body that other imaging procedures cannot match. For these reasons, examination of the brain, nerves, spinal cord, musculoskeletal areas (bones and joints), breasts, abdominal and pelvic organs make up the majority of MRI scans.

What is the difference between an MRI and a CAT (or CT) scan?
MRI does not use x-rays like a CT (computed tomography) scan. With a CT, x-rays are sent through the body, one slice at a time. The computer can then construct the information and create images of the body. MRI involves sending safe levels of electromagnetic waves, such as those used in radio transmission, in a safe magnetic environment. The body then sends out tiny radio waves back to a computer recorder. The different cells in the body can then in turn create their own signal with each molecule having its own radio frequency. The computer can tell the minute differences between the wavelengths of the radio waves and using that information can create an image of the body, one slice at a time.

Because each uses an entirely different technique for imaging the body, the images show different characteristics of the body's anatomy and the diseases that affect them.

Is MRI safe?
Because MRI uses no x-rays, it presents no apparent risk to adults and children. If you are pregnant or nursing you should consult your physician before having an MRI scan.

How do I prepare for an MRI?
Inform us if you have a pacemaker, artificial heart valves, have any metal objects in your body, are pregnant, or are nursing.

With contrast: No solid foods 4 hours before your study. Clear fluids are allowed up to 2 hours before your study.
Without contrast: No foods or fluids up to 2 hours before your study.

Can anyone have an MRI?
There are some conditions that are not conducive to high-field MRI. Our staff will speak with you when you make an appointment and make sure you do not have any of these conditions such as:

History of a heart pacemaker
History of metal in your body
History of artificial heart valve
History of brain aneurysm surgery
Severe claustrophobia

How and when will I know the results of my MRI scan?
At WRA, a board-certified radiologist will interpret your scan on the same day of your test or if your scan is in the evening, the following day. He/she will dictate his/her findings and the report will be transcribed and sent to your physician who requested the MRI. If necessary or requested, the radiologist will call your physician right away. Your physician will then share the results with you.

Why should I come to WRA rather than another MRI facility?
Washington Radiology Associates, P.C. is a medical practice owned and operated by physicians whose primary interest has been providing you the best medical care for over 25 years in the Washington area. We have a radiologist trained in the subspecialty of MRI on-site at all times for your questions or concerns. Our staff is committed to providing you efficient service while you are in our office and after you leave by getting a report to your doctor usually within 24 hours.

Where is WRA MRI located?
Our MRI facilities are in Fairfax, VA, Washington, D.C. and Chevy Chase/Friendship Heights, MD. The Virginia office is located at 3022 Williams Drive, Fairfax in Suite 104. Free parking is available to our patients. In DC, WRA has two dedicated MRI suites located at the University Medical Building at 2141 K Street, NW near Washington Circle. We are two blocks from the Foggy Bottom metro stop. Pay parking is available in an independent attended garage in the building. The Chevy Chase facility is located at 4445 Willard Ave, Suite 200, one block from the Friendship Heights metro stop. Pay parking is available underneath the building and across the street.