River Oaks Imaging and Diagnostic Center is the leading outpatient provider of imaging services in the greater Houston area. Your health, diagnosis and treatment are paramount to us. Throughout your examination, our goal is to provide a comfortable, yet professional atmosphere. Committed to providing the highest quality services, we offer the latest technology to ensure our team of board-certified radiologists produces accurate and timely information to assist your physician with properly identifying and treating your condition.

WHAT IS MAGNETIC RESONANCE IMAGING?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is one of the most accurate methods of diagnostic imaging available today. MRI enables your physician to explore the human body and produce precise diagnostic information without the use of ionizing radiation or invasive procedures. Contrast media (gadolinium) is necessary during certain scans. Contrast media is a substance given intravenously to assist in viewing a particular area.

HOW DOES A MRI WORK?

MRI utilizes a strong magnetic field and radio frequency waves to construct a computer image. The image is then digitally reviewed by a radiologist.

IS A MRI FOR EVERYONE?

Certain medical conditions may prevent you from having an MRI. An exam may not be able to be performed if you have any of the following (check with your doctor or give us a call):

Certain cardiac valves
Pacemaker
Aneurysm clips
Certain inner ear implants
Metal fragments in one or both eyes

WHAT PREPARATIONS ARE REQUIRED BEFORE THIS EXAM?

If you are pregnant, think you might be pregnant or are breast-feeding, please inform your physician and our staff before your exam.
Take all of your usual medications, but inquire about taking sedation or pain medication prior to your exam.
If you are claustrophobic and require sedation, please bring a driver and notify our Scheduling Department.
Most MRI exams do not have eating or drinking restrictions; however, our staff will inform you of any dietary restrictions that may be required at the time your exam is scheduled.
No metal objects are allowed in the scan room. This includes, but is not limited to jewelry, watches, credit or bank cards, hair pins, clips or barrettes, wigs, hearing aids, beepers, keys or key chains, and loose pocket change.
Remove eye make-up before your exam. Some make-up contains metal, which may distort the images.
A locker will be available to store your personal items; however, we recommend that you leave all valuables at home.

WHAT SHOULD I EXPECT DURING THE EXAM?

The procedure requires a few basic steps, although some aspects may vary during your test.

You will be asked to change into a hospital gown or other suitable attire.
A MRI technologist will assist you with your positioning on the padded exam table.
Lie as still as possible; motion can cause blurred images.
You will hear knocking sounds during the exam. Earplugs are provided for your comfort.
The MRI technologist will be in constant communication with you during the exam.
For your comfort, blankets and/or pillows will be provided upon request.

Our goal is to provide you with a pleasant and comfortable MRI experience.

HOW LONG WILL THE EXAM TAKE?

A typical MRI exam will last thirty to forty-five minutes depending on the specific exam requested by your physician.

MRI RESULTS

Our highly skilled licensed technologists will produce images for a radiologist to evaluate. The radiologist will study your results and produce a report, which then is forwarded to your physician.

LICENSURE/CERTIFICATES

Our technical staff is trained extensively in this highly specialized area and they are registered in Magnetic Resonance Imaging by the American Registry of Radiologic Technology. All radiologists are board certified.

FURTHER QUESTIONS

Should you have any questions about your ability to participate in a MRI procedure, or if you wish to know more about MRI, consult your physician or contact a member of our staff and we will be happy to assist you.

River Oaks Imaging & Diagnostic is geographically accessible with multiple locations. All facilities offer convenient, extended hours. Please call our scheduling department at (713) 512-6040 to determine which facility will best serve you. We look forward to a partnership with you and your physician, which will promote your health.