MRI Scans

At Tellica Imaging, we offer a comprehensive suite of MRI scans, utilizing state-of-the-art technology and brand-new machines to provide detailed images of your body. 

MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is a type of imaging technology used to create cross-sectional images of your organs, bones, muscles, and other tissues. MRI scans are different from x-rays since they do not involve radiation and offer exceptional detail, allowing our radiologists to detect even the most subtle abnormalities.

At Tellica Imaging, we are committed to providing high-quality MRI services in a comfortable and patient-centered environment. Our experienced and licensed technologists are dedicated to ensuring you have a positive experience through the entire process.

Case Example - Musculoskeletal Injuries

Musculoskeletal injuries (MSKI) place a heavy burden on providers in the United States, accounting for 70 million office visits and $380 billion in costs for patients and payers annually.  A MSKI may result in long-term pain, physical disability, psychological distress, reduced quality of life, and prevent a person from working. 

For example, consider the anterior cruciate ligaments (ACL) are located in the knee and provide critical stability for gait and locomotion. Unfortunately, up to 200,000 cases of torn ACLs occur annually in the United States, and MRIs provide diagnostic images to help orthopedic surgeons and sports medicine providers during their surgical planning. 

Tellica Imaging has over 20 fellowship-trained musculoskeletal specialized radiologists from renowned medical universities across the world who are skilled in appropriately diagnosing MSKIs. 

What is an MRI?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a powerful diagnostic tool. It uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed pictures of the inside of your body. MRIs do not use radiation and are completely safe and painless. 

During the procedure, the magnetic field aligns tiny particles within your body called protons. Radio waves are then pulsed through the area being scanned, causing the protons to release small amounts of energy. 

This energy release is detected by the MRI scanner and used to create highly detailed cross-sectional images of your internal organs, bones, and tissue.

MRI scans offer several advantages over other imaging techniques. This technology provides an exceptional level of detail in images, allowing your healthcare provider to spot even minor irregularities or concerns. Additionally, MRI scans can distinguish between different types of tissue, which is valuable for diagnosing a wide range of conditions.

What to Expect During an MRI

On the day of your MRI scan, you will be asked to wear comfortable clothing free of metal objects so it does not interfere with the magnetic imaging. You will typically be asked to change into a medical gown. 

In some cases, a contrast material (usually Gadolinium-based) may be injected through an intravenous (IV) line into a vein in a hand or arm. This helps make details clearer in the imaging results. 

Once prepped, you will lie down on a comfortable table that slides into the MRI scanner. 

The scanner is a large, tube-shaped machine. During the scan, you may hear clicking or buzzing noises. Earplugs and music are available to help you feel calm and comfortable throughout the procedure, along with a warm blanket since the room is intentionally kept at a cool temperature. Our technician monitors you from outside the scanner and can answer any questions you may have during the scan.

The MRI scan typically takes 20 to 45 minutes, depending on the area being imaged and the number of images required. We are committed to providing a positive experience for all our patients. 

If you have any concerns about claustrophobia or anxiety, please inform us in advance, so we can recommend ways to help you feel more comfortable during the scan.

MRI Risks

An MRI scan is a safe procedure for most people. However, there are certain situations where it may not be recommended. For example, it may not be suitable for people with certain metal implants and/or claustrophobia. 

Please talk to our staff about any medical conditions or implants you have before scheduling an MRI. We will work with you to determine if MRI is the right diagnostic tool for your needs and discuss alternative options if necessary.

There's a small risk of allergic reactions to contrast dye. If you have any allergies, be sure to inform your provider before undergoing a contrast scan. For those with known kidney issues, high blood pressure, or diabetes, we provide a free estimated glomerular filtration rate (eGFR) laboratory test to check organ function prior to contrast administration. 

If you are pregnant or believe you may be pregnant, please let our team know. We will provide a free test prior to the MRI to ensure the health and safety of you and your child.

Our MRI Services

We offer a variety of MRI scans to meet every patient’s specific needs.

Neurological & Head MRI Scans

Neurological and head MRI scans offer a safe and effective way for your provider to gain valuable insights into your brain and nervous system function. These scans use powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to create highly detailed cross-sectional images of your brain, brainstem, spinal cord, and blood vessels in this region. 

It is a valuable tool in diagnosing a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

  • Tumors and cysts
  • Stroke and transient ischemic attacks (TIAs)
  • Multiple sclerosis (MS)
  • Epilepsy
  • Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia
  • Infections of the brain or spinal cord
  • Head injuries
  • Abnormalities of the pituitary gland or orbits

If you are experiencing any concerning neurological symptoms, discuss the possibility of an MRI scan with your healthcare provider.

Spine MRI Scans

Spine MRI scans create intricate images of your vertebrae, the discs cushioning them, the spinal cord, nerves, and surrounding tissues. Spine MRIs provide detailed information about your spinal anatomy and potential abnormalities. 

This information is crucial for your healthcare provider to diagnose your back pain or other spine-related symptoms and recommend the most appropriate course of treatment.

A spine MRI can be a crucial diagnostic tool for evaluating spine conditions, such as:

  • Herniated discs
  • Spinal stenosis (narrowing of the spinal canal)
  • Arthritis of the spine
  • Fractures of the vertebrae
  • Tumors of the spine or spinal cord
  • Infections of the spine
  • Sciatica (pain radiating down the leg)

Musculoskeletal MRI Scans

Musculoskeletal MRI scans provide valuable insights into the health of your muscles, joints, and other soft tissues. This information empowers your provider to diagnose your pain, weakness, or other musculoskeletal symptoms and recommend the most effective treatment plan for optimal recovery.

Musculoskeletal MRIs are highly effective in diagnosing and evaluating:

  • Sports injuries (sprains, strains, tears)
  • Arthritis and other joint disorders
  • Bone tumors or infections
  • Ligament damage
  • Muscle tears and weakness
  • Complex fractures

Body MRI Scans

The whole body MRI is a broad scan that captures detailed images that help diagnose conditions within the chest, abdomen, and pelvis. Since the magnetic field is not harmful, your healthcare provider can also use a body MRI to monitor your baby during pregnancy safely.

It can be used to diagnose a variety of conditions, including:

  • Abdominal pain and pelvic pain
  • Liver disease and other abdominal organ conditions
  • Cancerous and non-cancerous tumors
  • Vascular diseases of the aorta and other blood vessels
  • Inflammatory bowel disease

Specialized MRI Scans

At Tellica Imaging, we recognize that some medical conditions require a more specialized approach.  In addition to our regular comprehensive MRI scans, we offer specialized MRI scans designed to address specific needs:

  • Cardiac MRI: This advanced scan provides detailed images and functional information about your heart, including its structure, function, and blood flow. Cardiac MRIs are valuable for diagnosing heart disease, abnormalities of the heart muscle, and congenital heart defects.
  • Functional MRI (fMRI): This scan measures brain activity by detecting changes in blood flow. fMRI is used to assess brain function for various purposes, such as epilepsy surgery planning, evaluating brain tumors, and studying cognitive function.

Schedule Your MRI Scan Today

Our team of experienced healthcare professionals will work with you to determine the most appropriate MRI scan for your specific needs. Don't wait to get the answers you need.

Visit us at any of our convenient locations and our friendly staff is here to answer your questions and guide you through the scheduling process. To schedule an imaging test at any of our locations, please call us today.

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