MRI

MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is a painless, non-invasive exam that can produce images of the entire body without harmful radiation.  It is used to facilitate precise diagnosis and treatment as well as assessment prior to surgery or other medical procedures.

About the service

Our MRI service offers advanced, non-invasive imaging to assist in diagnosing and monitoring a range of medical conditions. Using powerful magnetic fields and radio waves, MRI scans provide highly detailed images of organs, tissues, and bones without the use of ionizing radiation.

This technology is essential for accurately assessing persistent pain, injuries, neurological conditions, joint and spinal issues, and more. Our skilled technologists guide you through the process, ensuring comfort and clear communication. Whether detecting tumors, evaluating heart conditions, or examining internal organs, our MRI service is designed for comprehensive, safe, and efficient diagnostic care.

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Benefits

Reduces Workplace Injury Costs

Helps lower the costs associated with workplace injuries for employees, employers, and insurers.

Accelerates Recovery

Speeds up treatment and supports a faster return to normal activities.

Enhances Surgical Assessments

Improves surgical planning and evaluation for better outcomes.

Precision for Treatment

Enables precise diagnosis and tailored treatment options.

Radiation-Free and Safe

No radiation exposure; completely non-invasive and pain-free.

Detailed Imaging

Generates exceptionally precise, three-dimensional images of the body for thorough analysis.

Diagnose with Accuracy

A reliable, highly accurate method for diagnosing a wide range of health conditions and diseases.

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Exam process

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Reserve Your Appointment

Reserve your spot in our queue by visiting our booking site and following the instructions given. Upon submitting your request, our team will contact you within 48 business hours by telephone to schedule your appointment and provide additional details if necessary.

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Before Examination

Typically, no special preparation is needed for your MRI. However, there are special cases where fasting, or a preparation will be needed to ensure optimal imaging. If applicable, those instructions will be given to you at the time of your scheduling.

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During Examination

A technologist will be with you every step of the way during your MRI exam which typically lasts around 30-60 minutes. Please rest assured that our experienced technologists will undertake the necessary precautions to absolutely ensure your comfort and safety as those are our top priorities.

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After Examination

Results will be sent directly to your referring physician within 24-48 business hours. Please note that the results of your MRI exam make up only a portion of your full clinical picture. We ask that you discuss any questions or concerns regarding the content of the MRI report with your referring physician.

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Frequently asked questions

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

Do you offer cardiac MRI’s?

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

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.

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.

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.

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).

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).

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.

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