Low Cost Cash Cheap Discount Alabama MRI $380 - Affordable, Cash Pay, Low Cost Alabama MRI $380
Low Cost Alabama MRI Scan & Alabama MRI Discount Cash Prices for people with no health insurance.
Open or closed, low cost quality cheap cash discount MRI with and without contrast, and open or closed, low cost quality cheap discount MRI Scans with and without contrast for people with no health insurance.  Low cost cash discount MRI Scans -  Alabama Affordable CT Scans - MRI cash discount prices - Quality open Alabama MRI or closed Alabama MRI and open Alabama Cheap MRI Scans available. Doctor referral required to get the discount prices

Price range from lowest to highest
Updated June 24, 2010

  • Prices vary from location to location and may change without notice.

  • Tell us if you are and how far you are willing to travel to get the lowest price.

  • All prices include the radiologist reading.

ALABAMA LOWEST COST MRI $380
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Alabama MRI no contrast lowest $380 - $580
Alabama MRI with contrast lowest $480 - $635
Alabama with & without contrast lowest $480 - $735

Many Alabama MRI locations available...
Our lowest priced MRI imaging facility in Alabama is in Montgomery Alabama

Montgomery, Alabama MRI no contrast $380
Montgomery, Alabama MRI with contrast or with and without contrast $480
 

Do you need a cheap Alabama MRI or MRA?
Are you uninsured or do you have a high deductible or co-payment?

If you answered yes to both of these questions,
then you could save from 30-60% or more!


**********************************************************

To get a free, no obligation, price quote by email or telephone...

E-Mail us at MedicalDiscounts@aol.com with the following information or call toll free (888) 380-6337

               1. Tell us the location you want for the scan...city, state and zip code

               2. Let us know whether you require an MRI, MRA, CT Scan or PET Scan with or without contrast

3. To ensure our price is lower, call a local hospital and get a price for the procedure you need
(even if you didn't get a quote from a hospital, call or send us an E-Mail and we'll quote you a price)

4. Tell us if you would be willing to travel if we can get a lower price.

5. We will respond on the phone or with an e-mail giving you your options.

Cash Discount Alabama MRI
Alabama Low Cost Cash Pay Discount MRI
Alabama Low Cost Cash Pay Discount Magnetic Resonance Imaging
 

Alabama Quality Discount MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scan in Alabama

Jasper, Alabama, 35501, Walker County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Alabaster, Alabama, 35007, Shelby County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Alexander City, Alabama, 35010, Tallapoosa County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Clanton, Alabama, 35045, Chilton County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Cullman,  Alabama, 35058, Cullman County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Gardendale, Alabama, 35071, Jefferson County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Sylacauga, Alabama 35150, Talladega County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Talladega, Alabama, 35160, Talladega County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Pensacola, Alabama, 35203, Escambia County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Birmingham, Alabama, 35205, Jefferson County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Homewood, Alabama, 35209, Jefferson County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Birmingham, Alabama, 35209, Jefferson County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Birmingham, Alabama, 35213, Jefferson County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Hoover, Alabama, 35216, Jefferson County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Birmingham, Alabama, 35233, Jefferson County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Birmingham, Alabama, 35235, Jefferson County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Birmingham, Alabama, 35242, Shelby County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, 35406, Tuscaloosa County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Decatur, Alabama, 35601, Morgan County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Athens, Alabama, 35613, Limestone County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Florence, Alabama, 35630, Lauderdale County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Muscle Shoals, Alabama, 35661, Colbert County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Gadsden, Alabama, 35901, Etowah County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Prattville, Alabama, 36066, Prattville County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Montgomery, Alabama, 36106, Montgomery County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Montgomery, Alabama, 36111, Montgomery County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Montgomery, Alabama, 36117, Montgomery County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Oxford, Alabama, 36203, Calhoun County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Dothan, Alabama, 36301, Houston County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Foley, Alabama, 36535, Baldwin County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Mobile, Alabama 36606, Mobile County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Mobile, Alabama, 36608, Mobile County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Birmingham, Alabama, 35211, Jefferson County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Hoover, Alabama, 35216, Jefferson County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Vestavia Hills, Alabama, 35216, Jefferson County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Birmingham, Alabama, 35223, Jefferson County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Tuscaloosa, Alabama, 35401, Tuscaloosa County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Jasper, Alabama, 35502, Walker County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Jasper, Alabama, 35504, Walker County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Haleyville, Alabama, 35565, Winston County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Athens, Alabama, 35613, Limestone County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Florence, Alabama, 35630, Lauderdale County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Madison, Alabama, 35758, Madison County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Scottsboro, Alabama, 35768, Jackson County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Huntsville, Alabama, 35801, Madison County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Gadsden, Alabama, 35901, Etowah County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Gadsden, Alabama, 35903, Etowah County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Gadsden, Alabama, 35906, Etowah County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Albertville, Alabama, 35950, Marshall County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Fort Payne, Alabama, 35967, Dekalb County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Tallassee, Alabama, 36078, Elmore County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Troy, Alabama, 36081, Pike County Discount MRI CAT Scan CT Imaging Center
Wetumpka, Alabama, 36092, Elmore County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Montgomery, Alabama, 36109, Montgomery County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Montgomery, Alabama, 36111, Montgomery County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Montgomery, Alabama, 36117, Montgomery County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Anniston, Alabama, 36202, Calhoun County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Oxford, Alabama, 36203, Calhoun County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Dothan, Alabama, 36301, Houston County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Andalusia, Alabama, 36420, Covington County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Foley, Alabama, 36535, Baldwin County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Mobile, Alabama, 36606, Mobile County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Mobile, Alabama 36608, Mobile County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center
Opelika, Alabama, 36801, Lee County Discount MRI CAT Scan Imaging Center

Once you have your doctor's referral, if it is complicated fax it to (866) 380-6337 or email it to MedicalDiscounts@aol.com.  If it is not complicated, read it to us over the phone.  For more information or when you are ready to schedule your MRI or CAT Scan, call toll free (888) 550-8895, Monday-Friday between 8:30 a.m. and 5 p.m. (Pacific Standard Time).

Are you willing to travel to save money?  Thousands of locations available. Lowest cost facilities listed below.

 

Price range from lowest to highest listed by State
Updated June 24, 2010

  • Prices vary from location to location and may change without notice.

  • Tell us if you are and how far you are willing to travel to get the lowest price.

  • All prices include the radiologist reading.

ALABAMA LOWEST COST MRI $380
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Alabama MRI no contrast price range $380 - $580
Alabama MRI with contrast price range $480 - $635
Alabama with & without contrast price range $480 - $735

ARIZONA LOWEST COST MRI $380
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Arizona MRI no contrast price range $380 - $580
Arizona MRI with contrast price range $480 - $670
Arizona MRI with & without contrast price range $480 - $880

ARKANSAS LOWEST COST MRI $545
----once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Arkansas MRI no contrast price range $545 - $970
Arkansas MRI with contrast price range $645 - $1,185
Arkansas MRI with & without contrast price range $645 - $1,395

CALIFORNIA LOWEST COST MRI $360
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

California MRI no contrast price range $350 - $545
California MRI with contrast price range $460 - $630
California MRI with & without contrast price range $460 - $780

COLORADO LOWEST COST MRI $605
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Colorado MRI no contrast price range $605 - $695
Colorado MRI with contrast price range $695 - $805
Colorado MRI with & without contrast price $855

CONNECTICUT LOWEST COST MRI $805
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Connecticut MRI no contrast price $805
Connecticut MRI with contrast price $905
Connecticut MRI with & without contrast price $1,005

DELAWARE LOWEST COST MRI $730
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Delaware MRI no contrast price $730
Delaware MRI with contrast price $805
Delaware MRI with & without contrast price $955

DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA LOWEST COST MRI $530
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

District of Columbia MRI no contrast price $530
District of Columbia MRI with contrast price $605
District of Columbia MRI with & without contrast price $775

FLORIDA LOWEST COST MRI $360
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Florida MRI no contrast price range $360 - $495
Florida MRI with contrast price range $460 - $505
Florida MRI with & without contrast price range $460 - $855

GEORGIA LOWEST COST MRI $380
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Georgia MRI no contrast price range $380 - $555
Georgia MRI with contrast price range $480 - $630
Georgia MRI with & without contrast price range $480 - $805

ILLINOIS LOWEST COST MRI $380
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Illinois MRI no contrast price range $380 - $635
Illinois MRI with contrast price range $480 - $710
Illinois MRI with & without contrast price range $480 - $850

INDIANA LOWEST COST MRI $460
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Indiana MRI no contrast price range $460 - $930
Indiana MRI with contrast price range $560 - $930
Indiana MRI with & without contrast price range $560 - $1,255

IOWA LOWEST COST MRI $805
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Iowa MRI no contrast price $805
Iowa MRI with contrast price $905
Iowa MRI with & without contrast price $1,255

KANSAS LOWEST COST MRI $510
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Kansas MRI no contrast price range $510-$805
Kansas MRI with contrast price range $560-$905
Kansas MRI with & without contrast price range $635-$1,030

KENTUCKY LOWEST COST MRI $435
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Kentucky MRI no contrast price range $435 - $625
Kentucky MRI with contrast price range $470 - $720
Kentucky MRI with & without contrast price range $495 - $1,025

LOUISIANA LOWEST COST MRI $430
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Louisiana MRI no contrast price range $430 - $705
Louisiana MRI with contrast price range $530 - $805
Louisiana MRI with & without contrast price range $530 - $970

MARYLAND LOWEST COST MRI $380
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Maryland MRI no contrast price range $380 - $605
Maryland MRI with contrast price range $480 - $695
Maryland MRI with & without contrast price range $480 - $970

MASSACHUSETTS LOWEST COST MRI $555
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Massachusetts MRI no contrast price $555
Massachusetts MRI with contrast price $555
Massachusetts MRI with & without contrast price $755

MICHIGAN LOWEST COST MRI $560
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Michigan MRI no contrast price range $560-$730
Michigan MRI with contrast price range $610-$745
Michigan MRI with & without contrast price range $710 - $1,255

MINNESOTA LOWEST COST MRI $435
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Minnesota MRI no contrast price range $435 - $880
Minnesota MRI with contrast price range $470 - $1,005
Minnesota MRI with & without contrast price range $495 - $1,205

MISSISSIPPI LOWEST COST MRI $805
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Mississippi MRI no contrast price $805
Mississippi MRI with contrast price $905
Mississippi MRI with & without contrast price $1,255

MISSOURI LOWEST COST MRI $380
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Missouri MRI no contrast price $380-$710
Missouri MRI with contrast price $480-$785
Missouri MRI with & without contrast price $480-$885


MONTANA LOWEST COST MRI $930
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Montana MRI no contrast price $930
Montana MRI with contrast price $1,075
Montana MRI with & without contrast price $1,550

NEBRASKA LOWEST COST MRI $435
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Nebraska MRI no contrast price range $435 - $905
Nebraska MRI with contrast price range $470 - $1,055
Nebraska MRI with & without contrast price range $495 - $1,255

NEVADA LOWEST COST MRI $380
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Nevada MRI no contrast price range $380 - $755
Nevada MRI with contrast price range $480 - $905
Nevada MRI with & without contrast price range $480 - $905

NEW JERSEY LOWEST COST MRI $380
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

New Jersey MRI no contrast price range $380 - $540
New Jersey MRI with contrast price range $480 - $695
New Jersey MRI with & without contrast price range $480 - $880
 

NEW MEXICO LOWEST COST MRI $805
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

New Mexico MRI no contrast price $805
New Mexico MRI with contrast price $955
New Mexico MRI with & without contrast price $955
 

NEW YORK LOWEST COST MRI $460
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

New York MRI no contrast price range $460 - $555
New York MRI with contrast price range $510 - $650
New York MRI with & without contrast price range $510 - $705

NORTH CAROLINA LOWEST COST MRI $805
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

North Carolina MRI no contrast price $805
North Carolina MRI with contrast price $905
North Carolina MRI with & without contrast price $1,030

NORTH DAKOTA LOWEST COST MRI $960
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

North Dakota MRI no contrast price $960
North Dakota MRI with contrast price $1,560
North Dakota MRI with & without contrast price $1,560

OHIO LOWEST COST MRI $380
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Ohio MRI no contrast price range $380 - $655
Ohio MRI with contrast price range $480 - $655
Ohio MRI with & without contrast price range $480 - $970

OKLAHOMA LOWEST COST MRI $510
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Oklahoma MRI no contrast price range $510 - $830
Oklahoma MRI with contrast price range $560 - $930
Oklahoma MRI with & without contrast range $560 - $1,030

OREGON LOWEST COST MRI $945
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Oregon MRI no contrast price $945
Oregon MRI with contrast price $1,055
Oregon MRI with & without contrast price $1,355

PENNSYLVANIA LOWEST COST MRI $380
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Pennsylvania MRI no contrast price range $380 - $635
Pennsylvania MRI with contrast price range $480 - $710
Pennsylvania MRI with & without contrast price range $480 - $850

RHODE ISLAND LOWEST COST MRI $655
RHODE ISLAND LOWEST COST CT SCAN $405
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Rhode Island MRI no contrast price $655
Rhode Island MRI with contrast price $805
Rhode Island MRI with & without contrast price $805

SOUTH CAROLINA LOWEST PRICE MRI $705
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

South Carolina MRI no contrast price $705
South Carolina MRI with contrast price $725
South Carolina MRI with & without contrast price $905

TENNESSEE LOWEST COST MRI $435
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Tennessee MRI no contrast price range $435 - $630
Tennessee MRI with contrast price range $470 - $705
Tennessee MRI with & without contrast price range $495 - $780

TEXAS LOWEST COST MRI $380
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Texas MRI no contrast price range $380 - $585
Texas MRI with contrast price range $480 - $680
Texas MRI with & without contrast price range $480 - $755

UTAH LOWEST COST MRI $705
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Utah MRI no contrast price $705
Utah MRI with contrast price $855
Utah MRI with & without contrast price $855
 

VERMONT LOWEST COST MRI $705
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Vermont MRI no contrast price $705
Vermont MRI with contrast price $980
Vermont MRI with & without contrast price $1,455
 

VIRGINIA LOWEST COST MRI $560
VIRGINIA LOWEST COST CT SCAN $350
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Virginia MRI no contrast price range $560 - $755
Virginia MRI with contrast price range $635 - $755
Virginia MRI with & without contrast price range $635 - $955

WASHINGTON LOWEST COST MRI $380
WASHINGTON LOWEST COST CT SCAN $270
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Washington MRI no contrast price range $380 - $730
Washington MRI with contrast price range $480 - $795
Washington MRI with & without contrast price range $480 - $1,370

WEST VIRGINIA LOWEST COST MRI $645
WEST VIRGINIA LOWEST COST CT SCAN $380
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

West Virginia MRI no contrast price $645
West Virginia MRI with contrast price $780
West Virginia MRI with & without contrast price $935

WISCONSIN LOWEST COST MRI $430
WISCONSIN LOWEST COST CT SCAN $465
--once you have a doctor's referral . call toll free 888-380-6337 to schedule--

Wisconsin MRI no contrast price range $430 - $795
Wisconsin MRI with contrast price range $470 - $895
Wisconsin MRI with & without contrast price range $495 - $985
 


Cash Discount Cheap Alabama MRI's $380-$580
National Quality Imaging Centers

Save time.  Call us toll free (888) 550-8895.  We will help you find the
highest quality, most convenient, lowest cost MRI and/or CAT Scan.


  • There are no additional costs.  There are no surprises. 

  • All prices are confirmed and guaranteed before your appointment.

  • Modern, state-of-the-art equipment.

  • Radiologist reading included in the price.

  • Same day or next day appointments.

  • Out of area patients welcome.

To schedule, when you call, make sure you have a referral from a chiropractor, physician, dentist or podiatrist.

  • State-of-the-art MRI and CT Scan Equipment
  • Locations Nationwide
  • Closed and Open Equipment
  • Out of Area Patients Welcome
  • Imaging CD's available for patients to take to their doctors.
  • Results Faxed to Patient's Doctor
  • Board Certified Radiologists
  • MRI or CT Scan clinical findings included in price
  • No Hidden Fees
  • Same Day Appointments
  • Pediatric, Elderly, Overweight Patient Specialists
  • Open MRIs Offer No Tunnel - No Loud Noises
  • Top Quality Images

Low Cost MRI & CT Scan Tests (Partial List)

Abdomen . Adrenal Glands . Ankle (Achilles) . Bladder . Brain . Breast . Cervical Spine (C-Spine) . Chest . Coccyx (Tailbone) . Elbow . Face (Maxillofacial, Parotid Glands) . Femur (Thigh, Upper Leg) . Fingers . Foot .  Forearm (Lower Arm)   . Hand . Hip . Humerus (Upper Arm)  . IAC's (Inner Ear)  . Kidneys (Renal)  . Knee . Liver . Lower Leg (Calf, Tibia, Fibula) . Lumbar Spine (L-Spine)  . Mandible (Jaw)  . MRA Abdomen (Abdominal Aorta) .  MRA Brain . MRA Chest . MRA Kidneys . MRA Knee . MRA Neck . Nasopharynx (Tongue) . Neck . Orbits (Ears) . Pancreas . Pelvis . Pituitary Gland . Prostate Gland . Sacrum . Shoulder . SI Joints (Pelvic Joints)  Thoracic Spine (T-Spine, Dorsal Spine) . TMJ (Jaw Joints) . Toe . Uterus  . Wrist

How can we offer lower MRI and CT Scan prices?

Our contract prices are lower than what individuals can get for themselves for the following five reasons:  (1) Compared to a one-time client, we send a very large number of patients to imaging centers (i.e. volume discount);  (2) the patients we refer are paying cash (i.e. increase cash flow to Centers): (3) Centers do not have to bill and wait for insurance reimbursement (i.e. saves the Centers on overhead); and (4) our patients fill in available openings which increases the Center's bottom line by minimizing staff and equipment idle time (i.e. increased opportunity advantage); (5) Centers must contract with a third party to offer rates at or below Medicare reimbursement rates.  If a Medicare participating Center were to offer an individual cash rates lower than Medicare reimbursement rates, the Center could be held liable for huge financial penalties, and/or they could lose their ability to participate in the Medicare program.

  • MRI's and CT Scans require a doctor's (i.e. M.D., DO, DPM. DC or DDS) referral. 

  • Low cost MRI and CT Scan cash discount prices are only for customers who DON'T have or DON'T use insurance coverage.

Low Cost MRI & CT Scan Tests (Partial List)

Abdomen . Adrenal Glands . Ankle (Achilles) . Bladder . Brain . Breast . Cervical Spine (C-Spine) . Chest . Coccyx (Tailbone) . Elbow . Face (Maxillofacial, Parotid Glands) . Femur (Thigh, Upper Leg) . Fingers . Foot .  Forearm (Lower Arm)   . Hand . Hip . Humerus (Upper Arm)  . IAC's (Inner Ear)  . Kidneys (Renal)  . Knee . Liver . Lower Leg (Calf, Tibia, Fibula) . Lumbar Spine (L-Spine)  . Mandible (Jaw)  . MRA Abdomen (Abdominal Aorta) .  MRA Brain . MRA Chest . MRA Kidneys . MRA Knee . MRA Neck . Nasopharynx (Tongue) . Neck . Orbits (Ears) . Pancreas . Pelvis . Pituitary Gland . Prostate Gland . Sacrum . Shoulder . SI Joints (Pelvic Joints)  Thoracic Spine (T-Spine, Dorsal Spine) . TMJ (Jaw Joints) . Toe . Uterus  . Wrist

Magnetic Resonance Imaging, MRI General Information

The following information provided by Hage, Stephen John; Lee A. Shratter. "Magnetic Resonance Imaging." Gale Encyclopedia of Surgery: A Guide for Patients and Caregivers. The Gale Group Inc. 2004. Encyclopedia.com. 27 Jun. 2009 <http://www.encyclopedia.com>

Definition

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a unique and versatile medical imaging diagnostic tool. Using MRI, physicians obtain highly refined images of the body's interior. Strong magnetic fields and pulses of radio waves manipulate the body's natural magnetic, producing images not possible with other diagnostic imaging methods. MRI is particularly useful for imaging the brain and spine, as well as the soft tissues of joints and the interior structure of bones. The entire body can be imaged using MRI, and the technology poses few known health risks.

Purpose

MRI was developed in the 1980s. The latest additions to MRI technology are magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) and magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS). MRA studies blood flow, while MRS identifies the chemical composition of diseased tissue and produces color images of brain function. The many advantages of MRI include:

  • Detail. MRI creates precise images of the body based on the varying proportions of magnetically polarizable elements in different tissues. Very minor fluctuations in chemical composition can be determined. MRI images have greater subject contrast than those produced with standard x rays, computed tomography (CT), or ultrasound, all of which depend on the differing physical properties of tissues. This contrast sensitivity lets MRI distinguish fine variations in tissues deep within the body. It is particularly useful for spotting and distinguishing diseased tissues (tumors and other lesions) early in their development. Often, physicians prescribe an MRI scan to more fully investigate earlier findings from other imaging techniques.
  • Scope. All body parts can be imaged using MRI. Moreover, MRI scans are not adversely affected by bone, gas, or body waste, which can hinder other imaging techniques. (The scans can, however, be degraded by motion such as breathing, heartbeat, and normal bowel activity.) A close series of two-dimensional images can provide a three-dimensional view of a targeted area. Unlike other techniques, MRI can provide images in multiple planes.
  • Safety. MRI does not depend on potentially harmful ionizing radiation, as do standard x rays and CT scans . There are no known risks specific to the procedure, other than for people who have metal objects in their bodies.

Physicians sometimes choose other imaging techniques, such as ultrasound scanning, because the MRI process is complex, time-consuming, and costly. The process requires large, expensive, and complicated equipment; a highly trained operator; and a physician specializing in radiology. Generally, MRI is prescribed only when serious symptoms or negative results from other tests indicate a need. In many cases, an alternative imaging procedure is more appropriate for the type of diagnosis needed. However, some diseases such as multiple sclerosis are best imaged by MRI.

Physicians may prescribe an MRI scan of different areas of the body.

  • Brain and head. MRI technology was developed because of the need for brain imaging. It is one of the few imaging tools that can see through bone (the skull) and deliver high quality pictures of the brain's delicate soft tissue structures. MRI may be needed for patients with symptoms of a brain tumor, stroke, or infection (such as meningitis). MRI also may be needed when cognitive or psychological symptoms suggest brain disease (such as Alzheimer's or Huntington's diseases, or multiple sclerosis), or when developmental retardation suggests a birth defect. MRI can also provide pictures of the sinuses and other areas of the head beneath the face.
  • Spine. Spinal problems can cause neck or back pain, or numbness or weakness in the arm or leg. MRI is particularly useful for identifying and evaluating degenerated or herniated intervertebral discs. It can also be used to determine the condition of nerve tissue within the spinal cord.
  • Joints. MRI scanning is often used to diagnose and assess joint problems. MRI can provide clear images of the bone, cartilage, ligaments, and tendons that comprise a joint. MRI can be used to diagnose joint damage due to sports, advancing age, or arthritis. It can also be used to diagnose shoulder problems, such as a torn rotator cuff. MRI can detect the presence of an otherwise hidden tumor or infection in a joint, and can be used to diagnose the nature of developmental joint abnormalities in children.
  • Skeleton. The properties of MRI that allow it to see though the skull also allow it to view the interior of bones. It can be used to detect bone cancer, inspect the marrow for leukemia and other diseases, assess bone loss (osteoporosis), and examine complex fractures.
  • The rest of the body. While CT and ultrasound satisfy most chest, abdominal, and general body imaging needs, MRI may be required to provide more detailed images in certain circumstances, or when repeated scanning is necessary. MRI is also used in cases when the progress of therapy, such as liver cancer treatment, needs to be monitored, and the effect of repeated x ray exposure is a concern.

Description

Magnetic resonance imaging

MRI produces a map of hydrogen atoms distributed in the body. Hydrogen is the simplest element known, the most abundant in biological tissue, and one that can be magnetically polarized. It will align itself within a strong magnetic field, like the needle of a compass. The earth's magnetic field is not strong enough to polarize a person's hydrogen atoms, but the superconducting magnet of an MRI machine can do this. The strength of the earth's magnetic field is approximately 1 gauss. Typical field strength of an MRI unit, with a superconducting magnet, is 1,500 gauss, expressed as 1.5 kilogauss or 1.5 Tesla units. This comprises the "magnetic" part of MRI. There are also low field units with 0.5 Tesla strength, often with open MRI units.

Once a patient's hydrogen atoms have been aligned in the magnet, pulses of very specific radio wave frequencies jolt them out of alignment. The hydrogen atoms alternately absorb and emit radio wave energy, vibrating back and forth between their resting (polarized) state and their agitated (radio pulse) state. This comprises the "resonance" part of MRI. The patient does not detect this process.

The MRI equipment detects the duration, strength, and source location of the signals emitted by the atoms as they relax. This data is translated into an image on a television monitor. The amount of hydrogen in diseased tissue differs from the amount in healthy tissue of the same type, making MRI particularly effective at identifying tumors and other lesions. In some cases, chemical agents such as gadolinium can be injected to improve the contrast between healthy and diseased tissue.

A single MRI exposure produces a two-dimensional image of a slice through the entire target area. A series of these image slices closely spaced (usually less than half an inch [1.25 cm]) provides a virtual three-dimensional view of the area.

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is different from MRI because MRS uses a continuous band of radio wave frequencies to excite hydrogen atoms in a variety of chemical compounds other than water. These compounds absorb and emit radio energy at characteristic frequencies, or spectra, that can be used to identify them. Generally, a color image is created by assigning a hue to each distinctive spectral emission. This comprises the "spectroscopy" part of MRS. MRS is still experimental, and is available in only a few research centers.

Physicians mainly use MRS to study the brain and disorders such as epilepsy, Alzheimer's disease, brain tumors, and the effects of drugs on brain growth and metabolism. The technique is also useful in evaluating metabolic disorders of the muscles and nervous system.

Magnetic resonance angiography

Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is a variation on standard MRI. MRA, like other types of angiography, looks specifically at blood flow within the vascular system, without the injection of contrast agents (dye) or radioactive tracers. Standard MRI cannot detect blood flow, but MRA uses specific radio pulse sequences to capture usable signals. The technique is generally used in combination with MRI to obtain images that show both the structure of blood vessels and flow within the brain and head in cases of stroke, suspected blood clot, or aneurysm. In general, MRA is performed without contrast when examining the brain. Intravenous contrast is usually administered when other blood vessels, such as those in the neck, chest, or abdomen are studied.

Procedure

Regardless of the type of MRI planned, or area of the body targeted, the procedure involved is basically the same, and occurs in a special MRI suite. The patient lies back on a narrow table and is made as comfortable as possible. Transmitters are positioned on the body and the cushioned table that the patient is lying on moves into a long tube that houses the magnet. The tube is the length of an average adult lying down, and the tube is narrow and open at both ends. Once the area to be examined has been properly positioned, a radio pulse is applied. Then a two-dimensional image corresponding to one slice through the area is made. The table then moves a fraction of an inch and the next image is made, and so on. Each image exposure takes several seconds, and the entire exam lasts 3090 minutes. During this time, the patient is not allowed to move. Movement during the scan results in an unclear image.

Depending on the area to be imaged, the radio-wave transmitters are positioned in different locations.

  • For the head and neck, a helmet-like hat is worn.
  • For the spine, chest, and abdomen, the patient lies down on transmitters known as coils.
  • For the knee, shoulder, or other joint, the transmitters are applied directly to the joint.

Additional probes will monitor such vital signs as pulse and respiration.

The process is very noisy and confining. The patient hears a thumping sound for the duration of the procedure. To increase comfort, music supplied via earphones is often provided. Some patients become anxious, or they may panic because they are inside a small, enclosed tube. This is why vital signs are monitored, and the patient and medical team communicate with each other. If a patient has claustrophobia, the physician may prescribe an anti-anxiety drug prior to the procedure. If the chest or abdomen is to be imaged, the patient is asked to hold his or her breath for each exposure. Other instructions may be given as needed.

In many cases, the entire examination will be performed by an MRI operator who is not a physician. However, the supervising radiologist should be available to consult as necessary during the exam, and will view and interpret the results at a later time.

Open MRI units

Many adult patients and, especially children, become extremely claustrophobic when placed inside the confines of a full strength (1.5 Tesla) superconducting magnet. This problem is often severe enough to prevent them from having an MRI scan. In an alternative design, the magnet is comprised of two opposed halves with a large space in between. These units are known as open MRI machines. The advantage is that they can be used for patients who are claustrophobic. The disadvantage is that the field strength of the magnets is lower (usually 0.20.5 Tesla) than with standard full-strength machines. Lower strength magnetic fields require more time for image acquisition, increasing the risk of image problems because patients may have difficulty remaining still for longer periods of time.

Preparation

In some cases (such as for MRI brain scanning or MRA), a chemical designed to increase image contrast may be given by the radiologist immediately before the exam. If a patient suffers from anxiety or claustrophobia, drugs may be given to help the patient relax.

The patient must remove all metal objects (i.e., watches, jewelry, eyeglasses, hair clips). Any magnetized objects, such as credit and bank machine cards or audio tapes, should be kept far away from the MRI equipment because they can be erased. The patient cannnot bring a wallet or keys into the MRI machine. He or she may be asked to wear clothing without metal snaps, buckles, or zippers, unless a medical gown is provided. The patient may also be asked to remove any hair spray, hair gel, or cosmetics that could interfere with the scan.

Side effects

The potential side effects of magnetic and electric fields on human health remain a source of debate. In particular, the possible effects on an unborn baby are not well known. Any woman who is, or may be, pregnant should carefully discuss this issue with her physician and radiologist before undergoing a scan.

Chemical agents may be injected to improve the image or allow for the imaging of blood or other fluid flow during MRA. In rare cases, patients may be allergic to or intolerant of these agents, and should not receive them. If chemical agents are to be used, patients should discuss any concerns they have with their physician and radiologist.  As in other medical imaging techniques, obesity greatly interferes with the quality of MRI.

Aftercare

No aftercare is necessary, unless the patient received medication or had a reaction to a contrast agent. Normally, patients can return to their daily activities immediately. If the exam reveals a serious condition that requires more testing or treatment, appropriate information and counseling will be needed.

Precautions

MRI scanning should not be used when there is the potential for an interaction between the strong MRI magnetic field and metal objects that might be imbedded in a patient's body. The force of magnetic attraction on certain types of metal objects (including surgical steel and clips used to pinch off blood vessels) could move them within the body and cause serious injury. The movement would occur when the patient is placed into and out of the magnetic field. Metal may be imbedded in a person's body for several reasons:

  • Medical. People with implanted cardiac pacemakers , metal aneurysm clips, or who have had broken bones repaired with metal pins, screws, rods, or plates must inform their radiologist prior to having an MRI scan. Generally, a joint replacement or other orthopedic hardware is not a problem if another part of the body is being scanned.
  • Injury. Patients must tell their physicians if they have bullet fragments or other metal pieces in their body from old wounds. The suspected presence of metal, whether from an old or recent wound, should be confirmed before scanning.
  • Occupational. People with significant work exposure to metal particles (working with a metal grinder, for example) should discuss this with their physician and radiologist. The patient may need pre-scan testingusually a single, standard x ray of the eyes to see if any metal is present.

Normal results

A normal MRI, MRA, or MRS result is one that shows that the patient's physical condition falls within the normal range for the target area scanned.

Generally, MRI is prescribed only when serious symptoms or negative results from other tests indicate a need. There often exists strong evidence of a condition that the scan is designed to detect and assess. Thus, the results will often be abnormal, confirming the earlier diagnosis. At that point, further testing and appropriate medical treatment are needed. For example, if the MRI indicates the presence of a brain tumor, an MRS may be prescribed to determine the type of tumor so that aggressive treatment can begin immediately without the need for a surgical biopsy.

MRI Information Resources

Books

Haaga, John R., et al., eds. Computed Tomography and Magnetic Resonance Imaging of the Whole Body. St. Louis, MO: Mosby, 1994.
Hornak, Ph.D., P. Joseph. The Basics of MRI. <http//www.cis.rit.edu/htbooks/mri/>.
Zaret, Barry L., et al., eds. The Patient's Guide to Medical Tests. Boston: Houghton Mifflin Company, 1997.

Periodicals

Jung, H. "Discrimination of Metastatic from Acute Osteoporotic Compression Spinal Fractures with MR Imaging." Radiographics 179 (January/February 2003).
Kevles, Bettyann "Body Imaging." Newsweek Extra Millennium Issue (Winter 97/98): 74
6.

Organizations

American College of Radiology. 1891 Preston White Dr., Reston, VA 22091. (703) 648-8900. <http://www.acr.org.>.
American Society of Radiologic Technologists. 15000 Central Ave. SE, Albuquerque, NM 87123-3917. (505) 298-4500. <http://www.asrt.org>.
Center for Devices and Radiological Health. United States Food and Drug Administration. 1901 Chapman Ave., Rockville, MD 20857. (301) 443-4109. <http://www.fda.gov/cdrh>.

 

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