MRI Image Samples	What is MRI? Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses radio waves, magnetic fields and computer technology to produce very sharp images of your body, with no exposure to x-ray radiation. A series of contiguous scans are collected in different planes and combined to create a multi-dimensional, highly detailed view of your body. MRI can be used to diagnose a wide variety of medical conditions which affect soft tissue, bone, and organs in the body. This advanced technology greatly enhances your doctor’s ability to accurately diagnose your medical condition. What is MRA? MR Angiography (MRA) is an MRI study of the blood vessels. It utilizes MRI technology to detect, diagnose and aid the treatment of heart disorders, stroke and blood vessel diseases. MRA provides detailed images of blood vessels without using any contrast material, although today a special form of contrast usually is given to make the MRI images even clearer. The procedure is painless, and the magnetic field is not known to cause tissue damage of any kind. Does it Hurt? No! It’s actually a painless procedure and has no known side effects. The MRI unit uses harmless radio waves and magnetization instead of x-rays. Millions of patients have experienced MRI and the procedure has been proven to be very safe. Probably the most difficult part about the MRI is keeping still during the entire procedure. However, this is very important to remember, because movement will blur the picture and you will have to repeat the process. Is MRI for everybody? Many people can undergo an MRI exam without any problems but some cannot. Your physician or the staff at MRI Associates of Buffalo will probably ask you a few questions like: Do you weigh more than 340 pounds? Can you lie flat for 30 to 45 minutes? Are you claustrophobic? Are you pregnant? Because the MRI scan involves the use of a magnet, don’t be surprised if your asked these additional types of questions: Do you have a pacemaker, aneurysm clips or certain inner ear implants? If so, these are contraindications and you should not have an MRI scan. Do you have other types of implants? If so, you must bring in the Manufacturer Card you received at surgery so that we can confirm the implant is safe. Please remember, the radiologists and their technologists are expecting questions from you. Feel free to ask any questions or concerns that you may have regarding your MRI. Our staff will be happy to address any questions you may have.