Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Discover the Benefits of MRI
At Lompoc Valley Medical Center, we offer cutting-edge Magnetic Resonance
Imaging (MRI) technology to help accurately diagnose and monitor various
health conditions. Our skilled and compassionate team is dedicated to
providing you with the highest standard of care.
To learn more or schedule an appointment, please call us at
805-737-3375.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging or MRI, is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure
that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to generate detailed images
of your body's internal structures, including bones, organs, blood vessels,
and soft tissues.
The scan can take between 30 minutes to an hour in general. Because of
the higher cost of the MRI scan, this test is commonly ordered when a
diagnostic solution cannot be obtained by other techniques, and authorization
from your insurance company may be required. Not everybody can have an MRI.
Comprehensive MRI Services
We are proud to offer a wide range of MRI tests, including:
- Brain (Routine, IAC, Orbits, Seizure, Pituitary, MS, TMJ)
- Spine (Cervical, Thoracic, Lumbar)
- Breast
- Abdomen (Liver, Iron Overload, Spleen, MRCP, Kidney)
- Enterorrhaphy
- Pelvis (Female, Prostate, Hips, Rectum)
- Extremities and Joints
- MRA (MR angiography, an MRI of the blood vessels)
- MRV (MR venography, an MRI of the veins)
Advantages of MRI
MRI has several benefits, such as its ability to detect abnormal tissues
and provide more detailed images than a CT scan. This advantage allows
MRI to identify certain diseases, such as liver, prostate, and uterine
cancer, that a CT scan might miss. Moreover, MRI is excellent at detecting
sports injuries and musculoskeletal issues, such as joint inflammation,
spinal injuries, and strains and sprains.
Contradictions
At this time LVMC cannot scan patients with pacemakers, defibrillators,
or other implanted devices.
Compatibility
Our MRI is safe with joint replacements, coronary stents, ASD/PFO closure
devices, sternal wires, and most prosthetic heart valves. Patients with
a history of metallic implants, shrapnel or prior neurosurgical clip placement
are all individually evaluated prior to MRI.
General Preparation Instructions for MRI
-
Scheduling: Please call 805-737-3375 to schedule your appointment.
-
Metal: You will not be automatically disqualified from having an MRI if you
have metal in your body; however, you will be evaluated individually by
a technician before your MRI exam.
-
Registration: On the day of your appointment, please arrive 1 hour before your appointment
time to register. You can print and fill out the MRI questionnaire forms
which should speed up the process.
-
Medications: Please bring a list of your medications and allergies.
-
Claustrophobic: If you are claustrophobic, uncomfortable in small spaces, or have difficulty
with loud noises, please let the receptionist know when scheduling your
appointment.
-
Difficult Veins: If you have difficult veins and require IV contrast, please let the receptionist
know when scheduling your appointment.
Before Arriving for Your Procedure
- Please bring all MRI forms with you to your appointment.
- You should not have anything to eat or drink for three (3) hours before
your exam.
-
If you are claustrophobic and need medication from LVMC:
- Please arrive 1 ½ hours before your appointment.
- You must have a designated driver.
- Cannot drive for 24 hours.
- If you have difficult veins and require IV contrast, please arrive 1 ½
hour before your scheduled time.
- Please leave your jewelry and valuables at home. We do have lockers but
are limited in space.
- Please wear comfortable clothing. Please avoid clothing with snaps, zippers,
or other metal.
- Please bring a list of all your medications and allergies.
MRI Patient Questionnaires
Please fill out the below questionnaire and bring it with you to your appointment.
Place Your Trust in Our Expertise
At Lompoc Valley Medical Center, your health and comfort are our top priorities.
Our advanced MRI technology and experienced medical professionals are
here to ensure you receive the best possible care.
Don't wait any longer; call us today at
805-737-3375 to schedule your appointment.
