MRI Specialist

What is an MRI?

An MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is a diagnostic imaging tool that uses a magnetic field and computer-generated radio waves to create detailed images of your internal organs and tissues.

The magnetic field in the MRI temporarily realigns the water molecules in your body. The radio waves generate a faint signal from the aligned molecules, which creates the visual image.

Valdosta Orthopedic Associates is a full-service orthopedic surgical practice that uses the Oasis® 1.2T Premium Open MRI Imaging system and has full accreditation from the American College of Radiology (ACR).

Who needs an MRI?

The team at Valdosta Orthopedic Associates may recommend an MRI to confirm or rule out a suspected diagnosis to explain your symptoms. You may need an MRI to provide more information about your:

• Back pain
• Hand pain
• Joint pain
• Knee pain
• Neck pain
• Osteoarthritis
• Sports injury
• Hip pain
• Sacroiliac joint pain

You may also benefit from an MRI if you need orthopedic surgery. An MRI may help locate the source of your pain, which your surgeon uses to develop your surgical plan. 

What is an open MRI?

Valdosta Orthopedic Associates is the only practice in Lowndes County with an open MRI. During a traditional MRI, you lie on an exam table in an enclosed capsule. Many people feel claustrophobic when undergoing a traditional MRI.

During an open MRI, you lie on a table that’s open on the sides, making it ideal for claustrophobic patients, as well as children. 

The advanced open MRI system has the strongest MRI imaging magnet of its kind, providing high-resolution images for your orthopedic physician. 

How do I prepare for an MRI?

The team at Valdosta Orthopedic Associates provides specific instructions on how to prepare for your open MRI. There’s no need to change your regular eating or drinking habits or medication routine in most cases. 

However, the team recommends you come to your MRI dressed in comfortable clothing and leave all magnetic objects at home (jewelry, watches, hairpins, dentures). 

What happens during an MRI?

Your provider has you change into a gown and lie on the exam table before your MRI. Your provider then positions you in the open MRI machine.

Your MRI may take anywhere from 15-60 minutes, and your provider requests that you hold still during the test to prevent blurry images. 

There’s no downtime following your MRI, and you can resume your usual activities. Your provider at Valdosta Orthopedic Associates reviews the MRI results with you over the phone or at your next follow-up appointment.

For advanced diagnostic testing, call Valdosta Orthopedic Associates or book an appointment online today.