Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI or MR) is one of the safest, most comfortable imaging techniques available. Combining the physical properties of magnetic fields and radio waves, an MRI system reaches to produce high-resolution, high-quality, detailed images of the human body. MRI aides in the visualization and detection of pathological changes within organs, blood vessels, bones and various other types of soft-tissue structures. Magnetic Resonance Imaging has become very popular and successful in helping clinicians diagnose a wide variety of medical conditions.

Oregon Imaging Centers offers both High-Field and Open MRI exams. The High-Field, Short-Bore, 1.5 Tesla MRI systems at Oregon Imaging consists of two Siemen Symphony scanners and one Phillips Intera. The Open MRI scanner is a .30 Tesla, Hitachi Airis II.

Important Notes:
· If you are taking pain medication - you should not stop your pain medication for this exam - it is important that the patient be able to lie still for 45 minutes and if you do not take your medication you may become uncomfortable.

· Patients with pacemakers, and some types of aneurysm clips should never be placed in an MRI system. All other devices, such as heart valves, and middle ear prosthesis may or may not be safe. Please be ready to provide the device name, model number, and manufacturer to the Radiology department.

· Patients with known or suspected metal fragments in or around the eye may need to have an x-ray done to confirm metal in the eye. This will need to be done prior to the MRI exam.