X-rays films only show the bone anatomy and are produced by shooting X-ray beams through your body. Most disc pathology will be shown with an MRI scan followed by a discogram. The MRI scan shows the soft tissue and the MRI is not an X-ray. The MRI scan works because it is a big magnet and you are in it as a magnetic field is created around your body. The magnetic field changes the position of the electrons in the hydrogen atoms of the water that makes up your body.

You do not have to bring your X-Rays or MRI, but we would be interested to read any written reports you may have regarding these films.

X-ray is electromagnetic radiation capable of penetrating solids, used to photograph and examine parts of the body, and the X signifies their unknown nature. Ultrasound is sound with a frequency greater than 20,000 Hz, approximately the upper limit of human hearing. It is used to photograph and examine parts of the body. A CAT Scan, or C (Computerized) A (Axial) T (Tomography), uses a scanner x-ray machine to take a cross section x-ray image of the body. It is also called a CT scan.

Please call the office where the x-rays were taken 1 week prior to the date you need them and leave a message.

We may request X-rays and or a MRI after your examination. However, it may be determined during your examination that you do not have disc condition and do not require further studies. If you already have X-rays or a MRI, bring them to your appointment.

The more information that our radiologist has when reviewing your exam, the more specific the interpretation will be. Correlations with other studies are often helpful.

This is difficult to answer for an individual. In general, X-rays take a picture of the bones. They are used for diagnosing cancer, tumours, rheumatoid arthritis and osteoporotic collapse. MRI scan also take a picture of the body. MRI scans of the spine are done to identify cancer or tumours and slipped discs. They are indicated to identify the level of the lesion. MRI scan do not show why someone has pain.

MRI is so precise, the image taken is often the same as looking directly at the tissue (only in black and white). This clarity can lead to the early detection of disease and helps reduce the number of some diagnostic surgeries. Early detection is very valuable since it can lead to early treatment. Unlike x-rays, there are no known side effects to MRI.

All four are useful for non-invasive medical imaging. X-rays Conventional X-ray images are usually on photographic film or a fluorescent screen. X-rays from an X-ray tube pass through the body and the difference in absorption by different structures in the body is what produces contrast in the images. The images are 2D projections of a 3D object so they contain overlapping structures.

X-rays use radiation and are best for showing bones. MRI does not rely on x-rays but instead uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create a very clear picture of internal body structures. In both humans and animals, MRI is very useful in diagnosing disorders of: Brain, Spine, Joints, Soft tissues, Abdomen and Pelvis.

No. We do not perform diagnostic imaging studies in this office but work closely with all imaging centers including the hospital. The patient can request a specific imaging center that may be convenient to their home and we will schedule with that center.

MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging and does not utilize radiation. Instead, a strong magnetic field and radio waves are combined to create high-quality images of soft tissue which cannot be detected by an X-ray.

Yes. Your doctor must order the MRI scan for you. He/she will schedule a time that is most convenient for you.

Numerous studies have shown that even for people who have large body tattoos there is little to no potential for irritation resulting from an MRI. In the rare instance where discomfort resulted, it was localized and very temporary. Most people have more metal in their fillings than they would ever have in tattoo work. Copyright ? 1996-2007 Society of Permanent Cosmetic Professionals, All rights reserved and strictly enforced.

After your test, call the office to schedule a follow-up appointment. Dr. Stanley will explain and discuss your results at this time.

Because an MRI scan uses a magnet and does not use X-ray or particle beams, an MRI scan produces no ionizing radiation.

MRI scan is excellent at showing soft tissue such as spinal cord, nerve roots and herniated discs. A CT scan shows bone detail and some soft tissue. When looking for herniated discs or tumors, an MRI image will usually reveal much more detail.

If you or a covered dependent need any of these services, you will need to get a referral from your Primary Care Physician.

It is very difficult to see between the back teeth in your child's mouth. A cavity might be starting there that we could not see without an x-ray. Children at this age are more prone to cavities between the teeth, and early detection saves money and minimizes treatment needed to repair them. These back teeth are needed until the child is about 12, so thoroughly examining them early by x-ray is vital.