Radiology

Making Sure You Receive the Best Possible Treatment

Body Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) at the Tufts Medical Center Radiology Department uses the latest techniques and technology to help detect medical problems safely, painlessly and effectively. Having an accurate and precise diagnosis helps ensure you receive the best possible treatment.

MRI employs a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce high-resolution images of your body's organs and tissues. Since the technology does not involve the use of X-rays, you will not have to worry about radiation exposure.

Evaluating Chest, Abdomen & Pelvis Problems

At Body MRI, we evaluate conditions of the chest, abdomen and pelvis. (Other Tufts MC radiology divisions focus on the musculoskeletal system and the head, neck, brain and spine.)

Body MRI radiologists and technologists commonly perform MRI scans to diagnose conditions such as:

• Liver tumors, especially in patients with cirrhosis
• Pancreatitis or pancreatic cancer
• Kidney cancer
• Gynecological disorders, including fibroids and cancers of the ovaries, uterus and cervix
• Prostate cancer

Consulting with colleagues at Tufts MC or your referring doctor, your radiologist will carefully review your images to pinpoint your medical problem. He or she will then send a report that helps your referring doctor design a treatment plan tailored specifically to you.

What to Expect During Your Visit to Body MRI

We understand you might be anxious about your MRI examination. But rest assured that the entire process is safe, painless and brief, and we will do everything we can to put you at ease.

Before Your MRI Exam
Please leave all jewelry at home, as we will ask you to remove it for the scan. We will also have you change into a hospital gown before the exam begins.

Screening is an important part of a safe MRI exam. So upon arrival, you will complete a screening checklist and medical history form to identify metallic devices or implants in your body, such as a pacemaker, artificial heart valve, infusion pump or surgical clips in your skull. (These may interfere with the scan and even cause injury when exposed to the magnetic field. If you have one of these devices, please bring your medical identification card so we can determine whether you can proceed with the MRI.)

An MRI technologist will review the forms with you and answer any questions you may have. Be sure to inform the technologist if you are or may be pregnant.

Sometimes we use contrast to help light up specific tissues on the MRI scan. In these cases, a small intravenous catheter may be used for injection.

During Your MRI Exam
An MRI machine is a long cylinder that is open at both ends. At the start of the exam, you will lie down on a table with a pillow and blanket, and be given headphones for listening to music.

Once you are ready, the technologist will head into a nearby room to begin the exam. You will be rolled slowly into the MRI machine. As each image is taken, you will hear a series of loud noises. The ear plugs we provide will help soften the sound.

Throughout the exam, you will be able to speak with the technologist. The entire process typically lasts 30 to 40 minutes.

After Your MRI Exam
Following the exam, your radiologist will review your images and share his or her findings and recommendations with your referring doctor, who will speak with you about the results.

If you have any questions about your MRI exam, please call us at 617-636-6231.