MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce highly detailed images of internal organs, bony anatomy, and soft tissue. Magnetic Resonance Imaging can detect soft tissue abnormalities and bone pathology that are not visualized clearly by other imaging methods.

Capital Imaging Associates was the first to bring Magnetic Resonance Imaging to upstate New York, and our technologists are some of the most experienced MRI technologists in the country.

It is safe and causes no discomfort to the patient.

All MRI machines use a strong magnetic field. Simply put…the stronger the magnetic field, the better the pictures and the faster the exam time. Most OPEN MRI machines use a magnetic field of 1 Tesla or less, most often much less. Capital Imaging Associates’ ESPREE™OPEN MRI is the only OPEN MRI that uses a 1.5 Tesla magnetic field. This offers the patient the comfort of an OPEN MRI and the highest-quality images.

Our OPEN MRI can accommodate patients weighing up to 550lbs.

MRI is highly safe. There is no radiation exposure or known side effects. Because of the strong magnetic field used, MRI Exams cannot be performed on patients with specific cardiac devices. Some conditions require the approval of a radiologist before you can safely have an MRI examination.

If any of the following pertain to you, please let us know when you call to schedule your appointment.

Any implanted metal devices, including cerebral aneurysm clips, middle ear implants, cardiac implants, shrapnel, and any implanted pump or stimulator.

• Retinal surgery

• Recent surgery (within the past 6 weeks)

• Metal worker (welding/grinding)

• Claustrophobia

• If you are pregnant or think you may be pregnant

The technologist will interview you before your exam to ensure your safety before entering the MRI unit’s magnetic field. After all personal items and metal objects have been removed and placed in a locker, you will be escorted into the MRI suite. In the exam suite, you will be helped onto the exam table.

You will not feel anything during the exam but hear a repetitive knocking sound. Earplugs and/or headphones will be provided, and a built-in intercom/music system will allow you to listen and speak with the technologist anytime. When the knocking sound stops, the computer will begin formulating the images. It is very important to only move during your exam once the technologist permits you to do so.

Some MRI exams take as little as 10 minutes, while the average takes approximately 20 minutes.

Unique to the industry, this MRI unit, with a field strength of 1.5 Tesla, allows us to perform high-quality Breast MRI imaging in an OPEN machine, a significant technological advancement in Magnetic Resonance Imaging. The increased field strength of the magnet also results in a shorter exam time.

A breast MRI takes approximately 30 minutes.

Not all MRI exams require an injection. Whether or not you need an injection for your exam depends on what type of exam you are having, what symptoms you are experiencing and if any contraindications for having the injection apply to you.

In some cases, you may be required to have blood work drawn prior to your appointment.

If you want to know if the MRI exam you are scheduled for requires an injection, please call and speak to one of our knowledgeable MRI technologists.

If an injection is required for your MRI exam we use a substance called GADOVIST. GADOVIST is very safe; it contains no iodine.

If you have any questions regarding your exam, please call and ask to speak with a MRI technologist.

Most MRI exams do not require any preparation.

If you’re having an MRI of your abdomen or a specific organ in your abdomen (i.e., liver, kidneys, pancreas, etc.), you must fast 4 hours before your exam.

If you are scheduled for an MRI enterography, you will need to hydrate yourself well the day before the exam, fast 8 hours before the exam, and arrive for your appointment an hour and a half early to drink an oral contrast.

If you have any questions about your exam, please don’t hesitate to call and ask to speak with one of our MRI technologists.