Brain
Potential neurological issues, including tumors/masses, previous strokes, vascular malformations, aneurysms, and multiple sclerosis (MS)
What is an MRI Screening Scan at U3T?
Purpose
At U3T, MRI screening scans are a proactive approach to health care, designed to identify potential health issues before symptoms manifest. These scans are particularly vital for individuals who may not currently show symptoms but are considered at high risk for certain conditions due to their family history or genetic background.
Common Uses
Cancer Screening: MRI screening is invaluable for potentially detecting early signs of various cancers. This is especially critical for individuals with a known family history of cancer or genetic markers that increase cancer risk. Our screening scan does not comprehensively evaluate breast and prostate cancers. If you are interested in these particular body parts, a dedicated breast or prostate exam will be required.
Other Screenings: Beyond cancer, MRI scans are used to screen for a variety of other health concerns, such as infections, inflammatory diseases, cysts, aneurysms (brain and aorta), and various other abnormalities within the organs that might not yet present symptoms.
Advantages
Early Detection: Screening MRIs can potentially identify health issues before clinical symptoms are evident. This early detection is key when managing potential health issues more effectively.
Proactive Treatment Planning: With the information provided by screening results, medical professionals can develop a more effective and appropriate treatment plan, potentially reducing the severity of the condition and improving prognosis.
When to Consider a Screening MRI
Family History: If you have a family history of cancer or other significant health conditions that can be detected through MRI, consider a screening scan as a preventive measure.
Genetic Predisposition: Those with genetic predispositions to certain diseases like cancer are ideal candidates for early screening.
Proactive Health Management: If you are committed to maintaining your health and want to take a proactive approach to detect potential health issues early, a screening MRI can provide peace of mind and allow for early intervention if necessary.
At U3T MRI Centre, we focus on providing specialized MRI screening scans that help pave the way for early and effective management of health conditions. Our goal is to empower patients to take control of their health with advanced imaging technology that provides clear, detailed insights into their body’s condition.
Available Screening Scans
Whole Body Screening MRI Scan
$1895
Our Whole Body Screening MRI provides a comprehensive evaluation of your body’s core areas and your brain, but does not include the spine. This focused scan is specifically designed to assess potential diseases and conditions in various critical regions:
This MRI scan is an essential tool for those looking to get a detailed overview of their health, focusing on the brain and core body organs. It aids in the early detection and management of various health conditions, ensuring comprehensive healthcare monitoring. Please note that lung and bowel are not assessed in detail by MRI.
Neuro Screening MRI Scan
$1495
This specialized MRI scan is meticulously designed to identify conditions affecting the brain and spine. It serves as a targeted screening tool for detecting a wide range of neurological and abnormalities.
This comprehensive screening aids in early detection of critical health issues.
Comprehensive Body Screening MRI Scan
$2995
Our Complete Body Screening MRI Scan combines the Whole Body and Neuro Screening Scans to provide an extensive assessment of your health. Please refer to Whole body and Neuro screening Scan descriptions.
This all-encompassing scan is ideal for those seeking a thorough health evaluation, providing crucial insights that help in the early detection and management of various conditions.
Why Choose U3T for your MRI?
Choosing U3T MRI Centre for your diagnostic needs means selecting a facility that prioritizes not only cutting-edge technology, but also patient comfort and personalized care. Here are several reasons why U3T is the preferred choice for your MRI needs:
Advanced Technology
Our centre is equipped with a powerful 3 Tesla (3T) MRI machine, which offers twice the magnetic strength of most standard MRI machines. This state-of-the-art technology provides exceptionally clear and detailed images, enhancing diagnostic accuracy.
Comfortable Exam Experience
We understand that undergoing an MRI can be stressful, which is why we’ve designed our facility to maximize patient comfort. Our large bore MRI machine offers a more open feeling, reducing the sense of confinement and easing anxiety, particularly for patients who may feel claustrophobic.
Flexible Scheduling
We offer flexible exam times to accommodate your busy schedule, ensuring that getting your MRI scan is as convenient as possible.
Prompt Results
We ensure prompt reporting of your results to your physician. Quick turnaround times for test results mean faster answers and quicker steps towards your treatment plan.
Complimentary Image CD
Each patient receives a complimentary CD of their images. This allows you and your healthcare providers easy access to your scan results, facilitating discussions and follow-up treatments.
Highly Trained Technologists
Our team of technologists is highly trained, providing not only technical expertise but also compassionate care during your exam. They are dedicated to making your experience as comfortable and stress-free as possible.
Professional Environment
At U3T MRI Centre, we pride ourselves on maintaining a professional exam environment. Every aspect of your visit is managed with the utmost care and attention to detail, ensuring a smooth and positive experience.
When you choose U3T MRI Centre, you’re not just getting a diagnostic or screening procedure; you’re receiving comprehensive care tailored to your needs in a supportive environment. Let us be your partner in health, providing the advanced diagnostics and compassionate care you deserve.
What is an MRI?
An MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is a diagnostic tool that uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to generate detailed images of the organs and tissues inside the body. It does not involve ionizing radiation, which is used in x-rays and CT scans.
What is a 3T MRI?
A 3T MRI is an advanced imaging tool that operates with a magnetic field strength of three Tesla, which is twice the strength of the more common 1.5 Tesla machines. This higher field strength allows for clearer and more detailed images.
What makes 3T MRIs better than 1.5T MRIs?
The 3T MRI provides higher resolution images, which can be crucial in diagnosing and assessing fine details that are critical in neurological cases, small bone injuries, and soft tissue structures in the musculoskeletal system. The enhanced clarity helps doctors diagnose with more accuracy and can reduce the need for repeat scans.
What to expect during a screening MRI scan?
Screening exams typically take 75 minutes, consisting of multiple scans lasting 2 to 5 minutes and some that you will be required to hold your breath. You will be asked to remove any metallic objects you are carrying including your eyeglasses, watch, jewelry, dentures, hearing aids, and glucose monitoring systems.The technologist will position you comfortably on a cushioned table, then move the table into the space in the centre of the magnet. He or she is in contact with you visually and with an intercom. During the scanning procedure, you will hear a knocking and humming sound for several minutes at a time. Other than the sound, the MRI usually causes minimal bodily sensation. You need to lie as still as possible throughout the scan, as any movement could blur the image. When the exam is done, the technologist will help you off the table.
What if I suffer from claustrophobia?
Understanding that some patients may experience claustrophobia during an MRI scan, our facility is designed to enhance comfort and reduce anxiety. Our MRI system features spacious patient access, enhanced airflow, ambient lighting, and a contemporary design to create a more relaxing environment. For scans targeting lower extremities such as the knees, ankles, or feet, patients are positioned so that only the necessary part enters the magnet, allowing the head and upper body to remain outside, which can help alleviate feelings of confinement.
If concerns about claustrophobia persist, we recommend discussing the possibility of a mild sedative with your doctor. This approach has proven effective for many patients, helping them feel more at ease during the scan.
Is an MRI scan painful?
An MRI scan is a painless procedure. Some patients might feel uncomfortable lying still.
How long does an MRI scan take?
The duration of an MRI scan can vary depending on the part of the body being examined but generally lasts between 20 to 60 minutes.
Is an MRI Scan Suitable for Everyone?
Not everyone is a candidate for an MRI scan. The procedure’s strong magnetic field can pose risks if you have certain types of metal inside your body. Items that may prevent you from having an MRI include pacemakers, neuro-stimulators, certain intracranial aneurysm clips, implanted drug infusion pumps, and any foreign metallic objects in the eye that have not been removed by a physician.
If you have worked with metal, such as in sheet metal work or machining, or if you have had a metallic injury that was not medically addressed, you will need an X-ray to check for residual metal fragments before an MRI can be safely performed. Given that the magnetic field affects the entire body, a complete understanding of your medical history is essential to ensure your safety during the scan.
What doesn’t the screening include?
This exam is not an all-inclusive study because some organs of the body (e.g. lungs and bowel) are not well seen on MRI. Therefore, MRI will NOT rule out these types of cancers. Body parts scanned for this exam are solid organs and blood vessels which are extremely well seen on MRI, making it the preferred diagnostic imaging tool for medical professionals. This examination will NOT rule out breast or prostate cancer. This examination is NOT a substitute for routine screening mammography or colonoscopy. You should discuss all relevant diagnostic imaging questions you may have with your family physician or specialist.
What happens after an MRI scan?
There are no known biological side effects from an MRI scan. If you receive contrast, you may be asked to wait at U3T for a short time to ensure it is safe for you to leave. If you receive a sedative from your doctor for the scan, you will need someone to drive you home. Otherwise, you can resume normal activities as soon as the scan is over.
When will I learn the results of my exam?
Your scans are read by a Radiologist who will issue a report to your referring physician within 48 hours of your appointment. Regardless of what is discovered on your exam, you will be directed back to your referring physician to discuss our findings. If required, your physician may order further testing to determine if any pathology found on your screen requires follow up imaging or treatment. Together with your physician, you will decide on what treatment plan is right for you if necessary.
(587)-425-5267
4401 University Dr W, Lethbridge, AB T1K 3M4
