MRI Service
Patients need MRIs for many different reasons—from sprains to fractures to various illnesses from head to toe. At Princeton Radiology we don’t believe in a “one-size-fits-all” MRI. That’s why we have short-bore, wide-bore and extremity MRI units of varying magnetic strengths for comprehensive diagnostic applications and maximum patient comfort.
What is an MRI?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive imaging technique that uses radio waves, a strong magnetic field, and a computer to provide clear and detailed pictures of internal organs and tissues without the use of radiation or radioactive substances of any kind. With incredible accuracy, MRI can detect many abnormalities which CT scanning and X-rays cannot, especially those involving soft tissue. In fact, MRI reduces the need for biopsies, exploratory surgery and other diagnostic procedures, which carry associated risks. MRI is a totally painless procedure with no known side effects.
Your doctor may recommend an MRI for a wide range of injuries, illnesses, or conditions when a highly detailed view of specific body parts, particularly soft tissues like muscles, organs, and connective tissue, is needed. For instance, if you’re experiencing unexplained headaches, dizziness, or vision changes, an MRI of the brain could be crucial. Beyond ruling out serious issues like tumors or strokes, it can help pinpoint other causes such as inflamed blood vessels (sometimes associated with certain types of migraines or conditions like vasculitis), infections, or structural problems. An MRI is also often essential for persistent joint pain or athletic injuries, providing clear images of ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and bone marrow in areas like the knee, shoulder, or spine. Additionally, an MRI is frequently used to investigate abdominal or pelvic pain, assess organs such as the liver, kidneys, or reproductive system for conditions like cysts, masses, or inflammation, or to evaluate certain types of cancer. Ultimately, an MRI is recommended when its superior detail is key to an accurate diagnosis and effective treatment.
- Please be sure to bring your referral from your doctor or we may not be able to perform your test.
- Arrive at our office 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time. These 30 minutes will allow you to complete a medical history form and to finish drinking the oral contrast – if applicable – before your study begins.
- If you are having an MRI of the abdomen performed, do not eat or drink 4 hours before your procedure.
- Before your exam, you will change into a gown provided by the facility.
During the examination you will not feel anything unusual. You will, however, hear a repeated drum-like knocking sound as the scans are recorded. You will be given the option to listen to satellite radio during your scan to make you more comfortable. Hearing protection will be provided to those patients who do not wish to listen to music.
You can help to produce high quality images by lying still during the examination while breathing normally. The average scan takes 5 to 15 minutes – the complete examination is about 30 to 45 minutes.
This exam is available at the following locations:
Types of MRIs
Some exams require a stronger magnetic field for the highest possible detail. Princeton Radiology has MRI units of varying magnetic strengths, including maximum strength 3 Tesla (T) MRI.
Extremity MRI
Non-claustrophobic MRI imaging of the joints of your arm or leg. The scan is performed with only the injured arm or leg in the machine, while the rest of your body relaxes outside the unit on a comfortable, reclining chair. If you need an MRI of your hand, wrist, elbow, knee, foot or ankle ask for our extremity MRI.
Short- and Wide-Bore MRI
Short-bore MRIs can target specific areas of anatomy for scanning so that less of the patient’s body is inside the machine. Wide-bore MRIs provide a spacious exam experience with even more diagnostic applications, such as high resolution images of the prostate (without endorectal coil), breast, or brain.
Over 60 years of excellence in imaging.
And that’s just one reason why Princeton Radiology is the right choice.
Interpretations by board certified, sub-specialty trained radiologists.
Fast scheduling, less time in the waiting room, and same-day or next-day results in most cases.
We cater to patient schedules with daytime, evening and weekend hours for many exams.
From our friendly and caring staff to our beautiful imaging facilities, everything we do is patient-focused.
