Do you have chronic pain or trouble concentrating on tasks you once found interesting? A 3T MRI can help doctors diagnose and treat the underlying cause.
As specialists in 3T MRI in Brooklyn, NY, City Wide Radiology offers detailed soft tissue imaging administered by compassionate, non-judgmental staff. Keep reading to discover how these tests can benefit you.
How a 3T MRI Differs From Earlier Models
Tesla refers to a measurement of imaging power in a magnetic resonance imaging machine. The 3 Tesla MRI has twice the power of 1.5T models. It includes a type of functional MRI (fMRI) that can map brain activities and structures.
In addition to its increased power, it can complete scans faster. One study published in the Journal of Hand Surgery showed that a 3T MRI had fewer errors than an ultrasound when imaging areas under 3 millimeters. Unlike an X-ray, the high-field MRI can produce detailed images of bones and soft tissue, such as organs, using a magnetic field and water waves.
The benefits of this imaging test include:
- Faster scans
- Higher detail
- Improved diagnostic accuracy
- Better access to deeper organs like the prostate
- Improved patient experience from quieter operation
Types of Patients Who Benefit From This MRI
What types of patients receive the most benefits of a 3T MRI? Consider scheduling an appointment for this advanced imaging technology if any of the following apply:
- Brain tumors: If you suspect you have a brain tumor, the imaging test can find the location and determine the size. It can help doctors determine how to operate.
- Stroke: An MRI can help differentiate whether a patient has experienced a hemorrhagic or ischemic stroke. It can also show the location and severity of the event.
- Epilepsy: This seizure disorder often occurs after brain injury or from abnormal structures in the organ. The test provides greater accuracy in diagnosing the condition.
- Multiple sclerosis: Multiple sclerosis causes lesions or burns in the brain and spinal cord. An advanced imaging test can often detect these issues before widespread symptoms arise.
- Alzheimer’s: As a patient ages, an MRI can detect changes in structure or white matter lesions, detecting Alzheimer’s early and distinguishing it from other forms of dementia.
- Parkinson’s: MRIs prove an effective method of diagnosing Parkinson’s by identifying degeneration and distinguishing it from other mobility conditions.
- Torn tendons: A 3T MRI can detect torn ligaments like an ACL or groups of tendons like the rotator cuff.
- Stress fractures: MRIs can detect small cracks in your bones that X-rays often miss.
- Spinal degeneration: Herniated discs and spinal stenosis (a narrowing of the spinal canal) appear in high-resolution imaging tests so doctors can form a better treatment plan.
- Joint damage: Because it can create an image of the soft tissue, an MRI can capture cartilage damage and arthritis, so your providers can determine the severity of the issue.
The Process for Undergoing an MRI
According to Collective Minds, United States doctors conduct 40 million MRIs annually. What happens during the process?
1. Receive a Referral and Schedule your Test
You’ll likely need a referral from your general practitioner or other health specialist assigned to your care. The doctor orders the test when you show symptoms of anything the MRI could detect to rule out certain conditions. If you prioritize a healthcare center that specializes in imaging tests, you can likely find an appointment much more quickly than if you scheduled an appointment at the hospital or another clinic.
In many cases, you want the test as soon as possible. Early diagnosis can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
2. Take Steps To Prepare for the Procedure
As a non-invasive method, an MRI requires less preparation than many other medical procedures. However, you should still take the following steps to get ready for a 3T MRI:
- Alert your doctor about any metal implants, pacemakers, or other conditions that could affect the scan, like pregnancy, anemia, or low blood pressure.
- If you have a tendency toward claustrophobia, consider asking your doctor for a mild sedative.
- Ask whether the MRI requires injecting a contrast dye. Discuss any anxieties about the injection or allergies you have.
- If the test does require dye, you may have to drink it rather than receive an injection. In this case, your doctor will give you precise instructions for fasting.
- Remove any metal jewelry, piercings, or other metal accessories before you arrive for your appointment.
3. Attend Your Appointment and Undergo the Test
On the day of your test, wear comfortable and loose-fitting clothing. The clinic may also provide a robe, but not every practice does this.
The procedure will likely take between 30 and 60 minutes. You’ll have to stay completely still, so consider closing your eyes and listening to some quiet music. In many cases, you can even fall asleep.
Analyzing the results can take between a couple of hours and a couple of weeks. You won’t need to do anything special to recover while you wait.
Schedule an Appointment for an MRI Diagnostic Test Today
Now that you have a better understanding of a 3T MRI, don’t hesitate to contact City Wide Radiology. We provide diagnostic imaging tests to Brooklyn and the surrounding area. We’re committed to using cutting-edge technology and making every patient feel comfortable throughout the process.
Our doctors accept most insurance plans, including workers’ compensation, no-fault, and PIP (personal injury protection). Same-day appointments may be available. To schedule your MRI, call (718) 236-6800.
Frequently Asked Questions
If you have more questions about this neuroimaging scan, consider the answers to the following common questions.
How Long Does an MRI Take?
A modern MRI takes between 30 and 60 minutes, depending on the location of the scan and the number of images the doctor needs.
Does an MRI Have any Side Effects?
An MRI has no side effects because it doesn’t use radiation. However, some people may experience some claustrophobia.
Will Insurance Cover the Use of a 3T MRI?
Insurance likely covers the use of a 3T MRI for medically necessary diagnostic tests. Always ask your provider for confirmation before committing to the test.