M.R.I. Articles
 
MRI finds a home in Webster City
Darin Eklund, PA-C
Anil Sahai, DO

Over the years there has been an evolution of technology for imaging the human body from one-dimensional x-rays, to ultrasonography, Computed Tomography (CT), Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and beyond. Webster City MRI is proud to announce that MRI services are now available for appointment Monday through Friday, right here in your community.
 
Why an MRI?

MRI uses variations in cell radiofrequencies when exposed to a strong magnetic field to create three dimensional images of the patient’s anatomy. Diagnostically, the radiologist is able to visualize and interpret many areas, or “slices” of the organ, joint or veins, as compared to a one dimension x-ray. There is no exposure to radiation of any kind. Procedures are relatively quick, completely painless, and require no preparation. Typically, a larger strength MRI magnet provides a far superior diagnostic exam and is able to scan more intricate organs and other body structures. Webster City MRI is a 1.5 Tesla magnet, making it the highest strength available in a clinical setting.
 
What advantages does MRI have over CT?
 
CT scanning carries the same risk of radiation exposure as traditional x-rays, while MRI does not. Images from MRI are, generally, more sophisticated and detailed than from CT scanning. In fact MRI is preferred in examining the central nervous system (the brain and spinal cord) thanks to its superior soft tissue visualization. It can also be used to identify tumors, vascular problems, degenerative diseases, inflammation, infection, and other abnormalities in organs, joints and soft tissues of the body. MRI is rapidly becoming the preferred imaging technology for almost all medical evaluations.
 
Why have a clinic-based MRI?
 
Traditionally MRI units have only been available in a hospital setting. However, many insurance companies now seek clinic based MRI’s due to lessened expense. For many insurance plans, the patient pays only an office co-pay for MRI’s performed in an office setting, compared to paying the yearly deductible if it is done in a hospital setting.
 
MRI is not appropriate for all patients or medical evaluations. Depending upon the type of metal implant (pacemakers, artificial joints, etc.,) you may not qualify to have an MRI. Your doctor will need to decide if an MRI is appropriate..
 
Webster City MRI offers you a state of the art exam using a stationary 1.5 Tesla magnet, the highest magnet strength available outside of research institutions, resulting in a very high-definition, detailed exam for diagnostic interpretation. If you have further questions or concerns about this topic, please contact Webster City MRI at (515) 832-6123.
 
New MRI begins service in Webster City

By Anne Blankenship
Daily Freeman-Journal Staff Writer

A new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) unit is now in service in Webster City and appointments are now being scheduled.
The new MRI unit, operated by Webster City MRI, LC, 1610 Collins St., is one of the only clinic-based units in a 50 to 60 mile radius, according to Webster City MRI officials.
The MRI uses variations in cell radio frequencies when exposed to a strong magnetic field to create three-dimensional images of the patient's anatomy. The radiologist is then able to visualize and interpret many areas, or slices of the organ, joint or veins, as compared to a one-dimension X-ray or Computed Tomography (CT Scan), according to Dr. Anil Sahai. Compared to the CT scan, the MRI machine gives much better pictures, especially when looking at head, brain and soft tissue areas. The MRI picks up much smaller tumors and blood vessels. Similarly, in the neck or lower back, we get a better view of herniated disks, Sahai said.
For knees, tears in ligaments can't be seen on CT scan. The same applies to shoulder injuries and rotator cuffs. Sahai added that while X-rays and CT scans were good for bone structures, MRI offers superior views of the soft tissue, disks, ligaments and tendons.
 
Webster City MRI's unit is a closed MRI, which Sahai said offers better quality scans than the open type. The 1.5 Tesla-strength magnet is the highest strength available in a clinic setting.
According to Paula Chuchvara McMurray of Webster City MRI, orthopedic offices often use .3 or .6 strength scans, but to get the higher definition tissue scans, a higher magnetic strength is needed. For kidney, brain and other soft tissue scans, where we need finer definition, a higher magnetic strength is required, she said. Basically, the higher the strength, the sharper the image and the more finely detailed the picture.
Not all patients are candidates for the MRI procedure, she said, such as those with metal implants, including artificial joints and pacemakers. The patient's physician would need to decide if the MRI exam is appropriate, she commented.
With the clinic based MRI, patients may find they are only responsible for the cost of an office visit, depending upon their insurance coverage, McMurray said. In hospital settings, the patient may have to pay off their yearly deductible at the time of the scan. Patients should check with their insurance plan for specific MRI benefits, she suggested.
 
McMurray said Webster City MRI participates in most insurance plans in Central Iowa and can assist with pre-certification if required by insurance.
The MRI exams are by appointment and must be ordered by a physician. An hour is allowed for the procedure and all exams are TELERAD transmitted to Iowa Radiology PC in Des Moines for immediate interpretation. McMurray said occasionally, patients with claustrophobia or situational anxiety might need a light sedative prior to the exam. She said the patient's own physician can prescribe something or Ativan or Versed is available onsite. She added that patients given medication would need a
driver after the exam.
McMurray said Webster City MRI had already received many referrals for exams from physicians in Webster City and many surrounding communities. She added that the results of the exams are faxed directly to the patient's physician.
While housed in the Webster City Medical Clinic complex, it is owned independently by Webster City MRI, LC, and available for use by any physician. For more information on Webster City MRI or MRI exams, call 832-6123.