Diagnostic Imaging Services DIS New Orleans High Field Open MRI CT Mammography DEXA Fluoroscopy X-ray Ultrasound Nuclear Medicine Myelogram Arthrogram IVP Hysterosalpingogram

High-Field Open and Conventional MRI

MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, allows the radiologist to "see" soft tissue, such as muscles, fat, and internal organs without the use of x-rays. Besides being a totally painless exam, magnetic resonance imaging has no known side effects. MRIs are most commonly performed to evaluate the head, spine and joints, although we now offer many new applications. Our MRI machines offer superior imaging to, and faster results than, most open traditional magnets available today.

Conventional MRI Unit

Our new 1.2T High Field Open MRI Unit

Claustrophobic patients may find DIS helpful in allowing them to complete the procedure. If you have concerns regarding claustrophobia please alert our schedulers when you call to make your arrangements and we will be happy to schedule your procedure on our High Field Open MRI. Our new 1.2 T High Field Open MRI provides the imaging quality of a traditional MRI unit with the comfort of an open MRI, even accommodating patients weighing as much as 660 pounds. For more information on our High Field Open MRI, visit Our Newest Technology.

MRI Contraindications

If you have brain aneurysm clips or a heart pacemaker or defibrillator, you may not be able to have this test. Your physician can consult with our radiologist to determine an effective alternative test if MRI is contraindicated due to a specific condition.

Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA)

MRA is a non-invasive technique on the MRI scanner to image blood vessels of any body part, most commonly those in the head and neck. MRA is an alternative to conventional angiography, which requires the insertion of needles and catheters into the blood vessels with the use of x-ray.

Click here to view types of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) procedures that do not require any special preparation.

Click here to view types of Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA) procedures that do not require any special preparation.

For the following MRIs/ MRAs procedures (denoted with an asterisk), do not wear eye makeup to your appointment:

*MRI of Brain/Neck
*MRI - Facial

*MRI – Internal Auditory Canals (IAC’s)
*MRI - Parotid Gland
*MRI – Pituitary Gland

*MRA - Circle of Willis

Additional Special Instructions/Preparations:

*MRI – MRCP

Please fast 6 hours prior to your examination.

*MRA – Head and/or Neck

Please bring previous films (MRI or CT) for your examination if done at an outside facility.

MRI – Prostate Gland

Copies of your previous biopsy and PSA results are required for this exam; please ask your doctor to send these in advance of your appointment.
Please fast after midnight prior to your exam.
Do not have anything with caffeine or nicotine the day of your exam.
Just prior to your exam, special flexible and soft rubber-like tubes may be inserted into your rectum.