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Experience top-tier subspecialty diagnostic and interventional radiology services in San Luis and neighboring communities. Elevate your healthcare with us.
805-542-9700
Our MRI Technology
We are the only facility in the county to offer a Siemens Ultra High-Field 3T Open MRI. We were the first imaging facility in the county to offer cardiac CT, permanent PET/CT for cancer detection, digital mammography, and 4D ultrasound for stunning prenatal images. In addition, we have 3D Bone Mineral Analysis and X-ray. We also perform biopsies and drainages using our sophisticated equipment to provide guidance. Whenever needed, we reconstruct data collected during CT and MRI scans into three dimensional images. These images allow physicians to see exactly what is going on inside a patient’s body and allow diagnoses to be made that would not be possible otherwise. Our sophisticated digital imaging system means that images are available instantly over the internet for a doctor to review.
Prepare For Your Exam
Because the strong magnetic field used for MRI will pull on any ferromagnetic metal object implanted in your body, the MRI staff will ask whether you have a prosthetic hip, heart pacemaker (or artificial heart valve), implanted port (brand names Port-o-cath, Infusaport, Lifeport), intrauterine device (IUD), or any metal plates, pins, screws, or surgical staples in your body. In most cases, surgical staples, plates, pins and screws pose no risk during MRI if they have been in place for more than 4—6 weeks. Tattoos and permanent eyeliner may also create a problem. You will be asked if you have ever had bullets or shrapnel in your body, or ever worked with metal. If there is any question of metal fragments in your body (especially in the eye), you may be asked to have an X-ray that will detect any such objects. Tooth fillings usually are not affected by the magnetic field, but they may distort images of the facial area or brain, so the radiologist should be aware of them. The same is true of braces, which may make it hard to “tune” the MRI unit to your body. You will be asked to remove anything that might degrade MRI images of the head, including hairpins, jewelry, eyeglasses, hearing aids, and any removable dental work. If you are breastfeeding or if you think you may be pregnant, please call our office.
The radiologist or technologist may ask about drug allergies and whether you have had any sort of head surgery.
Brain/Orbits/Sinuses
Do not wear eye makeup.
Abdomen/Pelvis
Do not eat or drink 6 hours before the exam. Medications may be taken with a small amount of water.