Why has my doctored ordered this MRI?

Your doctor has requested you have an MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) done for diagnostic purposes. An MRI will help your doctor see inside your body and look for abnormalities or diseases. MRI is a non invasive means for diagnosis that does not use radiation like CT Scans and X­Ray. MRI is a superior technology that results in very clear pictures of the skeletal sys­tem, internal body organs and other soft tissue.

What do I need to do to prepare for this exam?

Since the procedure involves the use of a 19 ton magnet and a super charged electro­magnetic field, you must remove all metal and magnetic sensitive items from your body. This includes watches, credit and debit cards (whose magnetic stripes can be erased if exposed to the magnetic field), jewelry, hairpins or barrettes. Be sure not to wear makeup that con­tains magnetic flakes.

Prior to the procedure, you will be given a screen­ing questionnaire for any metallic objects on or within your body. In addi­tion, you will be provided with a private and secure changing room and gown to wear during your procedure.

Can I or should I bring a friend or loved one with me on the day of my exam?

You may bring a loved one or companion with you into the exam room provided they too are not wearing any metallic objects on their bodies or clothing. You must remain completely still during the pro­cedure and cannot speak with your companion. However, your loved one or companion may bring a book or magazine to read to you. Our Open MRI systemis perfect for examining children who may be apprehensive about having an MRI procedure and wish to have their parents present.

I am very claustrophobic.   Will I be able to tolerate the procedure? When we say open, we mean open! Our OpenMRI, The Neusoft .35T Super Open MRI system allows for our patients to have a truly comfortable experience. Open MRI is for everyone but is especially important for our patients who may have critical health issues or are physically unable to use traditional closed bore MRI equipment. Our patients can see their surroundings and family members can sit in the imaging room during the scanning process. The Neusoft .35T Super Open MRI is quieter than closed bore systems and its spacious design provides a more comfortable experience for all patients but most especially for the claustrophobic,obese and others who are physically challenged. Why should I choose Parish Imaging over other imaging centers in the region? Parish Imaging is dedicated to providing a patient-friendly environment with state-ofthe-art imaging technology. Ourequipment is regulated by the American College of Radiology. We are locally owned and operated and as the only Imaging Center in St. Bernard Parish, we are easily accessible to those who live in St. Bernard, Orleans and Jefferson Parishes.  We have a flexible schedule and will make every effort to accomodate your needs.  Under certain circumstances we will schedule weekend and evening appointments for those who absolutely cannot work within our regular business hours. We take walk in patients provided they have a doctor's order in hand.  And lastly, for those whose financial circumstances and insurance situation warrant, we do offer payment plans.