Magnetic Resonance Imaging or MRI is a revolutionary new diagnostic procedure. It is almost always performed on an outpatient basis, so it is convenient for the patient. MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is an imaging method used to view internal body structures using combinations of radio waves and magnetic fields. An MRI is the safest and most comprehensive way to diagnose certain conditions within the body.

An MRI requires no radiation; it is a proven safe procedure. The level of accuracy it affords is outstanding. MRI Scans are so precise, they can many times differentiate between healthy and unhealthy tissue before symptoms occur. MRI has been used successfully in diagnosing abnormalities in all parts of the body. This makes it one of the most versatile diagnostic tools available today.

There are many reasons why your physician might recommend an MRI Scan. First, it requires no radiation; it is a proven safe procedure. Second, the level of accuracy it affords is outstanding. MRI Scans are so precise, they can many times differentiate between healthy and unhealthy tissue before symptoms occur.

Without the use of radiation, such as X-rays and CAT scans, your physician can obtain a clear picture of areas in your body to identify adverse conditions and help determine the best method of treatment. MRI uses magnets, radio waves, and computer photographic techniques, none of which cause any pain to the patient. Until now, MRI has been a stressful, uncomfortable procedure. Patients were placed in tight and confined surroundings, and the noise level of the magnets has been discomforting. Now, you can be more comfortable. Short bore MRI is equipped with Pianissimo, a technology by Toshiba which reduces noise by as much as 90% when compared to traditional MRI.

While the procedure presents far less risk than traditional MRIs, there are some patients who should be particularly aware of any MRI procedure:

• Patients with a Cardiac Pacemaker
• Patients with an Aneurysm Clip
• Patients with an Inner Ear Implant
• Patients with Metal Fragments in the Eye
• Patients who are Pregnant

One of our technologists will meet with you to answer any questions. You will be shown to a private dressing room where you will change into a gown or scrubs for the procedure. All jewelry must be removed prior to the scan; therefore, it is advisable to leave all valuables at home. Next, you will be asked a few questions about your medical history and the test will be explained to you.

Basically, a Magnetic Resonance Scanner is a huge magnet that uses radio waves to develop internal images of your body and organs. The signals are analyzed by special computers to produce the images that the radiologists will interpret in order to make a diagnosis.

First of all, the scan is totally painless. You will feel nothing during the test, except for hearing a thumping sound similar to a drum roll. Earplugs are available if needed. During the scan, you will be lying on a special “table” that slides into a large white cylinder which fits inside the magnet. You will be asked to stay as still as possible during the test so that the pictures are as clear and precise as possible. Generally, the scan takes 20 to 30 minutes although this depends upon the area to be scanned. Following your exam, a radiologist will review and interpret your images within 24 to 48 hours. The interpretation will be forwarded to your physician who will then develop a treatment plan that is right for you.

• Please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your MRI or injection appointment.
• Examinations may take 15-45 minutes.
• Eat and drink normally.
• Take your regular medication unless your doctor instructs otherwise.
• It may be easier to relax if you do not drink too much liquid immediately before the scan.
• Wear comfortable clothes without metal fasteners. You will be provided with a set of scrubs or an examining gown.
• Notify the staff if you have metal in your body (i.e. Welding or cutting shavings, or shrapnel).
• Notify the staff as early as possible if you have any health aids or appliances (i.e. pacemaker, hearing aid, dental bridges, clips, implants or surgical staples, or if you are pregnant.
• We suggest you place your valuables, wallet and handbags in a secure place prior to entering our facility. However, we do have lockers.
• It is not a good idea to wear eye shadow or mascara

*MRI creates a strong magnetic field. So, jewelry, hairpins, eyeglasses, watches and other personal effects that contain metal should not be brought into the MRI area. Credit cards, bank debit cards, and other forms of identification that have magnetic strips may have their information erased if they are brought into the MRI area. Leave these at home, or keep them outside of the MRI area.

If you are unable to keep your MRI appointment, please call (985) 857-9790.

Your MRI will be interpreted by Dr. Stephen Pomeranz and his staff, noted the world over as one of the leading specialists in the field of MRI and the interpretation of MRI diagnostic results. Dr. Pomeranz is a diagnostic and technical consultant to many other medical and imaging institutions as well as the National Basketball Association and the National Football League. His consulting abilities are considered to be among the most precise and finest available anywhere. He is also a respected author, lecturer and editor. Dr. Pomeranz and his esteemed staff will read and interpret every MRI at Open MRI of Louisiana. Their response time, in most cases, will be within 24 hours or the next business day following the procedure. In more serious cases, or when there is a life-threatening condition, the response will be immediate.

Radiography is a valuable tool in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic problems and injuries.

X-rays are done to:

• Evaluate the cause of pain
• Determine whether your bone is fractured or the joint dislocated
• Determine whether fluid has built up in the joint
• Evaluate changes in your bones caused by conditions such as an infection, arthritis, abnormal bone growths, or other bone disease
• Determine whether your bones are positioned properly after treating a fracture or dislocation

We also do x-rays for other physicians, outside the specialty of orthopedics. In an effort to reduce waiting time, your doctor may request that you be x-rayed prior to your exam, especially with new problems or injuries.

Pregnancy and the risk of radiation exposure to your baby (fetus) must be considered, so it is important that you notify the doctor or technologist if there is a chance that you are pregnant, especially in the early stages.

Our quality care continues with our modern diagnostic capabilities. Our state-of-the-art equipment includes Direct Radiography (DR). DR allows us to capture hospital-quality digital images (digital x-rays) on a computer screen. DR is a well-proven technology. It provides a digital image acquisition process that produces images superior to conventional x-ray on film. X-ray digital images are read, interpreted, and stored on a computer or PACS. This direct radiography system provides the opportunity for more rapid inspection, immediate feedback, and systems can be networked for easy distribution of images.

Based on your medical history, testing may be required prior to your surgery dependent upon your surgeon’s orders. It is important that the testing be completed in a timely manner. When talking with your pre-admission nurse, they will assist with the necessary paperwork and schedule you for pre-operative testing within the surgery center for your convenience.

• Eat a light dinner and drink plenty of water throughout the day.
• Avoid alcohol, smoking or using tobacco products as much as possible.
• Shower at night or the morning of your procedure with a mild soap or shampoo and be sure to dry skin and hair thoroughly.

Please arrange for a responsible person to take you home and stay with you for the 24 hours following your surgery. Your procedure will be canceled if you cannot arrange a ride home. If you receive anesthesia/sedation, you cannot take a taxi home unless you have a responsible person with you.

• Do not eat or drink anything after midnight the night before your surgery, unless your surgeon or anesthesiologist instructs otherwise. This includes: water, liquids, food, candy, gum, breath mints, and chewing tobacco.
• Wear clean, loose, comfortable clothing.
• Avoid wearing make-up or nail polish.
• Report any body piercings other than the ears.
• Please leave jewelry and valuables at home.

Registration

Please check in at the reception desk. Bring the following items with you:

Photo identification, Eyeglasses, glass case, contacts, contact lens case, hearing aids and case, Health insurance card

At the time of your admission, please be prepared to pay your co-insurance, co-payment and/or your deductible.

What to Expect in the Pre-operative Staging Area

A nurse will prepare you for your surgical procedure. Your pre-operative nurse, operating room nurse, anesthesiologist and surgeon will review your medical records and verify your surgical site.

What to Expect in Recovery

After your surgical procedure, you will be transferred to the recovery area until you are ready to go home. The average recovery time is 1-2 hours dependent upon type and extent of surgical procedure.

You will be given post-operative instructions from your surgeon relating to your procedure. For your comfort, the Gulf Coast Surgical Center reminds you:

• Have a responsible person stay with you for 24 hours following your surgery.
• Limit your activities until your surgeon says you can return to your normal routine.
• Keeping your pain under control is important to your well-being. Your surgeon and anesthesiologist will provide you with a treatment plan in order to speed up your recovery and help you return to your normal routine.
• Follow your surgeon’s instructions regarding diet, rest, and medication.
• Do not drink alcohol, drive a car, make legal decisions, cook, operate power tools or heavy equipment for 24 hours after receiving anesthesia, intravenous sedation or while taking pain medication.
• Contact your surgeon if you feel you are having problems after discharge. If you cannot contact your surgeon but feel your concerns warrant a doctor’s attention, call or report to the nearest emergency room.
• If you have questions, contact Gulf Coast Surgical Center at (985) 872-1661

Hours of operation are 6:00 am to 5:00 pm, Monday through Friday.

The day after your procedure, a nurse from Gulf Coast Surgical Center will contact you and follow up on your progress. If your procedure is on a Friday, you will be contacted on the following Monday.

Gulf Coast Surgical Center is a physician owned facility. Prior to your surgery, Gulf Coast Surgical Center will contact you regarding the patient portion amount. Please be prepared to pay this amount prior to your procedure. For your convenience, we accept cash, personal check, money orders, debit cards, VISA, MasterCard, and American Express.

You will receive a bill for the balance of the services provided by Gulf Coast Surgical Center as well as separate bills from:

• the Physician
• the Anesthesiologist
• Pathology – specimens examined by a pathologist

The staff at Gulf Coast Surgical Center is happy to assist with any questions you may have.