Diagnostic Imaging
The physicians at Flathead Orthopedic Clinic (FOC) understand that accurate, timely diagnosis is the first step to recovery. We provide diagnostic services in a timely fashion with compassion and care. We strive to provide high quality imaging while maintaining patient safety.
All of our registered technologists are licensed with the state of Montana. They have a combined total of over 100 years of experience in imaging.
Diagnostic x-ray
Imaging with x-rays involves exposing a part of the body to a small dose of ionizing radiation to produce pictures of the inside of the body; ie; hand, wrist, foot, ankle, knee, leg or spine. X-rays are the oldest and most frequently used form of medical imaging.
X-rays are needed in most cases to perform an initial evaluation and also to measure your progress during the healing process. We provide on site x-ray services at all our office locations. We suggest you bring elastic-waist shorts with you to make taking your x-rays easier.
Our equipment includes Computed Radiography (CR). It provides a digital image acquisition that produces images superior to conventional x-ray on film. The digital images are read, interpreted, and stored on a computer or CD.
The physicians and technologists team up to ensure a high level of care while maintaining safe radiation practices.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Our goal is to make sure that you are as physically and emotionally comfortable as possible. We do our best to assure that you understand and feel confident in the care that you receive. One examination that may be required to better assist in your treatment is a diagnostic imaging technique known as an MRI or Magnetic Resonance Imaging. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an advanced, state-of-the-art method, which produces clear and detailed pictures of your bones and soft tissues. These scans can be done with or without dye (contrast). MRI uses a powerful, painless magnetic field, radio frequency pulses and a computer to produce cross-sectional images of your body without using radiation. The images can then be examined on a computer monitor, printed or copied to a CD.
MR imaging is typically performed to diagnose or evaluate…
...degenerative joint disorders such as arthritis and meniscus tears (knee).
...fractures (in selected patients).
...joint abnormalities due to trauma (tendon tears for example).
...spinal disk abnormalities (herniated disk for example).
...the integrity of the spinal cord
...sports-related injuries and work-related disorders caused by repeated strain, vibration or forceful impact.
...pain, swelling or bleeding in the tissues in and around the joints and bones.
At FOC, there is an MRI unit conveniently located within the clinic. Not only do our providers read your MRI but, after the images are processed, they are instantaneously transmitted to board certified radiologists at Northwest Imaging in Kalispell, MT for interpretation. Reports are typically available to FOC within 24 hours.
You will find that we are often priced below the current market. Although it is your responsibility to precertify procedures with your insurance company, our courteous billing staff is always available to assist you.
NOTE: You will receive two bills; one from FOC for performing the MRI, the other from Northwest Imaging Radiologists for interpreting the MRI.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
We hope the following most frequently asked questions and answers will increase your understanding and comfort level and better prepare you for your MRI examination. If something is not clear, or you still have questions, please feel free to ask one of our FOC MRI personnel.How long is an MRI scan?
The length of your stay in the MR machine is usually about 20–45 minutes, depending on the part of the body being imaged and if any repeats are required due to motion. When the imaging is done, the technologist will help you off the table and show you where to collect your personal belongings.
What are the risks of MRI?
There are no harmful effects from exposure to the magnetic fields or radio waves used in producing MR images.
You will be asked a series of questions concerning your surgical and occupational background. Below is a sample of some of the contraindications for receiving an MRI.
An undetected metal implant may be seriously affected by the strong magnetic field. Cardiac pacemakers, certain cerebral aneurysm clips, neurostimulators, hearing aids or cochlear implants, magnetically activated implants and insulin pumps are contraindicated for MRI.
MRI is generally avoided during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Doctors usually choose other methods of imaging, such as ultrasound, unless there is a strong medical reason.
Metallic foreign bodies, such as piercings, bullets or shrapnel, may cause injury if it is adjacent to a sensitive site of the body. In some cases, x-rays may need to be taken prior to your MRI for further evaluation of the foreign body.
If you think you may be claustrophobic, ask your doctor to prescribe medication prior to the exam. If you do receive medication, please bring someone with you that will be able to drive you home because you will not be able to drive yourself.
What happens during the examination?
Before the scan, a technologist will assist you onto an automatic scanning table. Here, you will be asked to relax, lay on your back, place your arms at your side, and place your head on a head rest. It is important that you do not move during the MRI. The table will then begin to slide very smoothly into the opening. You won’t feel anything, but you will hear the normal thumping noise and hum of the machine. A speaker is installed in the magnet to allow you to communicate with the technologist during the procedure if you wish. You will also be offered headphones to listen to your choice of music.
What should I do to prepare for an MRI?
Limit the amount of fluids you drink on the day of the exam. You will have to remain still for 30–60 minutes so you don’t want to be worried about having a full bladder during the MRI. Otherwise, you may go about your normal routine. When you arrive, a FOC technologist will ask you to remove anything metallic such as a hearing aid, dental appliances such as dentures or a partial plate, watches, jewelry, and hairpins. You will be asked to store these items, along with credit cards, coins and keys in a lockable locker for safe keeping.
Relax and do not worry about the exam! We will make sure that you receive the quality, professional care that you deserve.
What if I need a shoulder, hip or epidural steroid injection?
When your physician requests an injection using fluoroscopy, our skilled staff is available to assist you in understanding the procedure as well as scheduling an appointment in a timely manner.
What is an Arthrogram?
Arthrograms are MRI studies with dye. If dye is required, you will receive an injection by a physician prior to being taken to our MRI suite for your scan.