Magnetic Resonance Imaging uses a computer, magnetic fields, and radio waves to generate images within the body. It can be used for virtually all anatomy and allows the radiologist to see the specific area of concern in order to provide a quick and accurate diagnosis for your physician. To schedule your MRI, log into your Patient Portal today.
A new tool has emerged to provide better detection and assessment of suspected prostate cancer. Known as prostate MRI, this test can help you and your doctor to better understand your risk, and help contribute to more targeted and effective treatment of prostate cancer. The prostate MRI is offered at our Oceanside, Encinitas, La Jolla and Hillcrest San Diego centers.
Magnetic resonance angiography, or MRA, is an MRI-based technique to assess blood flow through a vessel. This helps doctors to evaluate them for occlusions, aneurysms, stenoses or other abnormalities. Unlike traditional angiography tests, MRA is not invasive. In some cases, the injection of a contrast agent (dye) is needed to help visualize the blood vessels.
We are excited to now offer MRI Abdomen Elastography (MRE) at IHS. This new service helps to evaluate liver disease noninvasively, accurately, and safely.
MRI Elastography measures tissue stiffness, which is most commonly used for the liver. MRE provides quantitative, reproducible maps of stiffness, helping to detect and stage liver fibrosis without the need for a biopsy.
Why refer for MRE?
• Early diagnosis of liver fibrosis
• Accurate staging of chronic liver disease
• Monitoring disease progression or treatment response
• Avoidance of biopsy in many patients
• Completely noninvasive
• Highly accurate and reproducible
• Ideal for serial follow-up
• Covered by most insurance plans
MRE is a valuable tool for patients with:
• Chronic hepatitis B or C
• NAFLD or NASH
• Autoimmune hepatitis
• Primary sclerosing cholangitis
• Hemochromatosis
*Unlike ultrasound-based elastography, MRI is not limited by obesity or ascites and evaluates the entire liver, not just a focal sample.
At Imaging Healthcare Specialists, we offer a full range of MRI equipment, including 3T MRI and high-field short-bore MRI. Our 3T systems provide greater image detail for certain musculoskeletal, neurological and body imaging needs, and our high-field short-bore systems are a full 10-12 centimeters larger than the MRI systems offered by the majority of our competitors. This provides excellent image quality while being less confining for the patient, and we are able to accommodate patients of larger sizes and weights.
To schedule your MRI, log into your Patient Portal today.
To have an optimal appointment time, please follow these guidelines:
With some examinations, an injection into a vein is required. The MRI technologist will explain the procedure further if your exam requires this.
MRI does not utilize any form of ionizing radiation. Please wear comfortable clothing, like sweats. Clothing with zippers, metal buttons or snaps cannot be worn. This includes underwire bras as well. If needed, a cotton dressing gown will be available for you to use.
Contact Imaging Healthcare Specialists to schedule any of your prostate MRI and 3T MRI needs. We have locations throughout the Greater San Diego area, including Oceanside, Encinitas, La Jolla and Hillcrest, San Diego centers.
Contact Imaging Healthcare Specialists to schedule any of your prostate MRI and 3T MRI needs. We have locations throughout the Greater San Diego area including Oceanside, Encinitas, La Jolla and Hillcrest, San Diego centers.
