Frequently Asked Questions

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What is the difference between Platelet-Rich Fibrin (PRF) injections and Platelet-Rich Plasma (PRP) injections?

PRF is obtained by drawing a small blood sample from the patient, which is then placed in a specialized centrifuge without the addition of any chemicals. Unlike PRP(platelet-rich plasma), PRF (platelet-rich fibrin) allows for a more sophisticated and natural approach to pain relief as the creation of a fibrin matrix is then injected into the area of interest which aims to promote tissue regeneration and accelerates the healing process.

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Which body parts are you able to inject for pain management?

Pain injections will be tailored to the area of interest provided in the referral form submitted. Most musculoskeletal body parts such as wrists, knees, shoulders, hips, elbows, and ankles can be completed at our facilities. Upon receiving your referral, our expert medical team will review the request, and our staff will contact you by telephone within 48 business hours to provide you with a complete price and next available appointment.

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Can cortisone injections cure my condition?

While cortisone injections can provide significant pain relief and reduce inflammation, they are not a cure for underlying conditions such as arthritis or tendonitis. The goal of this pain management technique is to alleviate symptoms and improve function. Other treatments, such as physical therapy, lifestyle changes, or a PRF injection may be better suited for long-term management.

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Can I drive or return to normal activities after a cortisone injection?

In most cases, you can resume normal activities shortly after a cortisone injection, but it is recommended to avoid any heavy exercise or strenuous activities for at least 24-48 hours to allow the injection to settle.

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How often can I get cortisone injections?

The frequency of cortisone injections depends on the condition being treated and your doctor’s assessment. In our facilities, we recommend getting a cortisone injection only every 6 months if there is a positive response.

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How long does it take for a cortisone injection to work?

The effects of a cortisone injection can vary, but many patients start feeling relief within a few days to a week after the injection. The benefits can last for weeks to months, depending on the condition and individual response.

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Are cortisone injections painful?

While the injection itself may cause some discomfort, most people tolerate cortisone injections well. The needle used is usually small, and many patients feel only a brief, sharp sensation. To minimize discomfort, our medical team may apply a local anesthetic before the injection.

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How does a cortisone injection work?

Cortisone injections work by delivering a corticosteroid medication directly into the inflamed area, where it helps reduce inflammation, pain, and swelling. It is guided by ultrasound to ensure that the area of interest is properly targeted.

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Why would I need a cortisone injection?

Cortisone injections are typically used to treat conditions that cause inflammation and pain, such as arthritis, tendonitis, bursitis, joint pain or swelling, and more.

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What is a cortisone injection?

A cortisone injection is a type of treatment that involves the injection of a corticosteroid medication into a specific area of the body, such as a joint, muscle, or tendon to alleviate pain or inflammation. Corticosteroids are powerful anti-inflammatory drugs that help reduce swelling, pain, and inflammation in the targeted area.

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Is there any preparations needed for an ultrasound?

Some ultrasound exams may require some preparation beforehand. Please visit our ultrasound page for specific preparation depending on the ultrasound exam needed.

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Do you offer Doppler ultrasound?

We currently offer venous doppler ultrasounds for the leg only, and carotid doppler.

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Do you offer breast ultrasound?

Unfortunately, we do not offer breast ultrasound.

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Do you offer cardiac ultrasound?

Unfortunately, we do not offer cardiac ultrasounds as of yet. Please stay tuned!

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Do you offer musculoskeletal ultrasound?

We are proud to offer MSK ultrasounds at our St-Joseph MRI & Ultrasound location. Please visit our pricing list to get an idea on the cost, or visit our booking site at mri.rsvp to reserve your appointment.

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What is an ultrasound?

Ultrasound, also known as sonography, is a medical diagnostic imaging technique that uses high-frequency sound waves to produce images of the inside of the body. Unlike x-rays or CT scans, ultrasound does not involve ionizing radiation.

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Can I, as the patient, receive a copy of the report and images?

Yes! We are proud to be partnered with PocketHealth, a digital image sharing platform that will allow you to create an account and provide the images to any doctor that you may be visiting. As for the written report, you will be given instructions on how to receive a copy at the time of your visit.

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What is the size of your MRI machine?

Both of our facilities are equipped with 70 cm diameter MRIs which are wider than those in the hospitals of the region allowing more space for the patient while ensuring that there is no degradation in the quality of the images.

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How fast can I get an MRI at Ottawa Gatineau Imaging?

In most cases, our team will contact you within 48 business hours after receiving your referral through our booking site to book your appointment. Appointments are typically scheduled within the same week of having received your referral. There may be a longer waiting time if a contrast agent is required, but please rest assured that our team will work hard to provide you with the fastest available appointment date.

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Can I eat or drink before an MRI?

In most cases, you can eat and drink as usual before an MRI. However, certain MRIs will require fasting. Instructions will be given to you at the time of booking if necessary.

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Can I get an MRI if I have metal implants or devices?

It depends on the type of metal in the implant and its location. Some implants, such as pacemakers will not be safe for an MRI at our facilities as we do not have a cardiologist on-site. It is essential to inform your doctor and our team about any implants or metal devices you may have at the time of the appointment booking, as we will take the necessary steps to ensure that a safe MRI can be performed.

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How long does an MRI take?

The length of an MRI scan can vary depending on the area being examined and the type of MRI being performed. Typically, it takes between 15 to 60 minutes. Some scans, especially those requiring contrast agents, may take long.

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Do you offer cardiac MRI’s?

Unfortunately, our facilities do not offer cardiac MRI as a cardiologist must be on-site.

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I am claustrophobic. Will I still be able to perform an MRI?

Some patients may feel anxiety due to being enclosed in the narrow MRI machine. Please rest assured that our team will take the necessary steps to make you feel as comfortable as possible (you will be given earplugs and music will be played to help reduce the noise). In the event that you are claustrophobic, we recommend that you discuss with your doctor to see about the possibility of receiving some prescription anti-anxiety medication such as Ativan.

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Is an MRI considered safe?

MRI is a powerful, non-invasive tool aimed at helping doctors diagnose and monitor a variety of medical conditions with high precision. It is generally considered safe for most patients to perform an MRI, but there are some precautions to consider as it is essentially a big magnet.

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Will my MRI necessitate a contrast agent?

In some cases, a contrast agent (gadolinium-based) is injected into the bloodstream to enhance the images captured, helping to highlight specific areas, such as tumors, nodules, or areas with inflammation. This is most often seen in abdominal, pelvic, and brain MRI’s. The need for a contrast agent injection is on a case-by-case basis and will be determined by our expert medical team who specialize in radiology.

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Why should I get an MRI?

MRI provides high-resolution images of soft tissues (brain, spinal cord, muscles, etc.), making it particularly useful for neurological, abdominal, and musculoskeletal imaging. It is currently the gold standard in diagnostic imaging and is used to diagnose a wide variety of conditions such as brain disorders (e.g., tumors, strokes, multiple sclerosis), spinal issues (e.g., herniated discs, spinal cord injuries), and musculoskeletal problems (e.g., joint injuries, ligament tears).

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Am I exposed to radiation with an MRI?

Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRI does not use ionizing radiation making it safer for repeated use, especially for certain patient groups (e.g., cancer patients or patients in remission wanting to reduce exposure to radiation, and pregnant women).

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What is an MRI?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a type of diagnostic medical imaging technique used to visualize the internal structures of the body in high detail. It employs strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of organs, tissues, and other internal structures without the use of ionizing radiation, making it a safer alternative for patients depending on their needs.