Our Goals and Services

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses a magnetic field and radio waves instead of X-rays (radiation) to image many parts of the body. MRI is an accurate and innovative technology for the diagnosis and medical examination of soft tissue disease and injury. MRI is able to detect injuries, abnormalities, and growths in the head, neck, spine, chest, abdomen, pelvis and extremities that may be "invisible" to x-rays.

At Exton MRI, we also use this technology to perform a procedure called Magnetic Resonance Angiography (or MRA). MRA helps diagnose blood flow abnormalities. Most often this is utilized to study the blood vessels of the heart, brain, neck, kidneys, lungs and legs.

Visit Main Line Health Imaging's Magnetic Resonance Imaging page to learn more about the MRI technology we offer.

State-of-the Art Technology

Exton MRI utilizes the GE 1.5 Tesla short bore MRI system, one of the fastest and most powerful imaging tools available today. The 1.5 Tesla MRI is designed to provide a non-threatening, patient-friendly experience without compromising the clinical performance required for high resolution head-to-toe imaging. It features a wide-open enclosure that provides a dual flare, patient-friendly appearance; this eases patient anxiety and offers better access to the patient by the technologist. The short bore length is also less confining for patients compared to the longer devices of years past.

About Your MRI Procedure

MRI exams at Exton MRI typically take between 25 and 45 minutes. Patients can listen to music or wear ear plugs during their procedure. Patients may choose from our selection of CDs and cassettes or they can bring their own.

Patients will be asked to remove their eyeglasses, watch, jewelry, wallet, credit cards, hearing aides and/or any other metallic objects they may be carrying.

Special preparation is not needed for the exam. The patient is encouraged to eat normally and take prescribed medications, unless instructed otherwise by their physician. Patients sometimes find it easier to relax if they avoid caffeine before the exam.

Patients are able to bring family members into the scan room (after screening procedures) for support and comfort. If the patient's family is not present, a representative of Exton MRI can go into the magnet room with the patient, if requested. These factors all provide a more comfortable, pleasant and patient-friendly experience for the patient.

There are no health risks associated with magnetic field or radio waves used by an MRI machine. The staff at Exton MRI will screen patients and anyone else accompanying the patients into the exam room for metal and electronic implants.

In most cases, patients only need to bring the script/order from the physician and a copy of their insurance card to the appointment.