Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanners have been around for almost 40 years, but their inner workings can still seem mysterious. And, to a patient coming into the scanning room for the first time, they can also be large and intimidating.
The machine itself comes in many shapes and sizes, but the major components are basically the same. One of the most important parts is the large magnet, which is thousands of times more powerful than the earth’s magnetic field. A horizontal tube, called the bore, runs through the centre of this magnet, which is where the patient enters while lying on a bed.
The magnet consists of many coils of wire through which a current of electricity is passed, creating a magnetic field of measured in teslas (T). Mayfair operates both 1.5T and 3T MRI services at Mayfair Place. To generate a strong magnetic field, very large amounts of electricity are needed. Normally, this would cause the wires to heat up and burn, since wires tend to “resist” electrical current, but superconductivity, or cooling of the wires, reduces this resistance to almost zero.
The wires are continually bathed in liquid helium at very low temperatures (-450˚F) and insulated by a vacuum. An added benefit of this superconductive magnet is that once the initial electrical current is sent through the wires, it flows continuously (since there is no resistance) and additional current is not necessary.
The machine also contains three much lower strength magnets, called gradient magnets. The purpose of the main magnet is to create an intense, stable magnetic field around the patient, while the gradient magnets create fields of varying strengths, which allow the system to target specific areas of the body.
Next, we have the radiofrequency coils. These transmit radio waves into the patient’s body; there are usually different coils which conform to the contour of different parts of the body: knees, shoulders, wrists, head, neck, and so on.
Finally, a very powerful computer system controls various aspects of the scanning process, including the gradient coils, the radiofrequency pulse, as well as interpreting all the information gathered and constructing high-quality images.
Axial head MRI
Coronal knee MRI
Our body is made up of billions of atoms, including an abundance of hydrogen atoms. The MRI machine is specifically concerned with these atoms, because within them the hydrogen protons are randomly spinning on their axis in various directions – except when they are placed in a magnetic field.
When they are exposed to a magnetic field, hydrogen protons line up in the direction of that field. Since the magnetic field runs straight down the centre of an MRI machine, the protons line up to point at either the head or the feet of the patient. If we match up the head-facing protons with the feet-facing protons, we are left with only a few unmatched protons out of every million. It’s doesn’t sound like much, but it is enough to create detailed images.
In addition to the magnetic field, the MRI machine emits a radio frequency (RF) pulse specific to the “resonance” of hydrogen. That pulse is directed toward the area of the body we want to examine, where the unmatched protons absorb the energy and are forced to spin at a particular frequency, in a particular direction. This specific frequency of resonance (the Larmour frequency) depends on the tissue being imaged and the strength of the magnetic field.
While the RF pulse is being emitted, the gradient magnets are turned off and on rapidly, in a specific way, to alter the magnetic field on a small, but localized level. This allows the system to target a specific area for imaging. Images can be taken of any part of the body with incredible detail, providing doctors with scans of the tissue from a variety of angles and directions.
Head and neck MRI
When the RF pulse is stopped, the hydrogen protons slowly return to their previous alignment and release the energy they had absorbed. In the process, they give off signals that the coils pick up and send to the computer system. The computer interprets these signals as mathematical data, which it then converts into a picture.
Sometimes an MRI scan involves an injectable contrast, or dye, that alters the local magnetic field in the tissue being examined. Normal and abnormal tissue respond differently to this slight alteration, allowing doctors to visualize different types of tissue abnormalities.
There are no known health risks attributed to MRI scans. However, due to the nature of superconductivity, the magnet is always on, so it’s important to take care around the machine. In particular, it’s important to wear metal-free clothing (including underwear) and remove jewelry. You will also need to be screened for internal metal objects before entering the room.
MRI machines make a loud knocking noise during a scan, which can be disconcerting. It is caused when the gradient coils work to alter the main magnetic field. Due to the huge magnetic forces involved, they vibrate slightly and produce sound. These sounds are normal. At Mayfair, we will provide you with headphones to listen to music and help muffle the noise. For patients with sensitive hearing our machines also offer acoustic reduction technology to reduce noise for brain, spine, and MSK exams.
In Alberta, Mayfair Diagnostics offers CT and MRI exams as private pay services at our Mayfair Place location in Calgary. In Saskatchewan, we offer MRI as both public and private pay exams at our Saskatoon and Regina locations. For more information, please visit our services page.
REFERENCES
Gould, T. A. & Edmonds, M. (2022) “How MRI Works.” www.science.howstuffworks.com. Accessed January 13, 2022.
National Institute of Biomedical Imaging and Bioengineering (2022) “Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).” www.nibib.nih.gov. Accessed January 13, 2022.
Radiologists are specialized physicians who interpret diagnostic imaging to diagnose and monitor a wide range of medical conditions. At Mayfair Diagnostics, they review X-ray, ultrasound, CT, and MRI studies, among others, analyzinsg images in detail and providing comprehensive reports and clinical recommendations to referring physicians. They collaborate closely with technologists and clinic teams to guide imaging protocols, ensure quality and radiation safety standards, and may perform image-guided procedures such as biopsies or injections. Through their expertise and teamwork, radiologists play a key role in accurate diagnosis, effective treatment planning, and improved patient outcomes.
Administrative professionals support the organization across human resources, marketing, operations, strategic partnerships, finance, information technology, and infrastructure. From recruiting staff to promoting services and improving workflows, they help ensure smooth operations and positive experiences for employees and patients. Through collaboration with clinical and support teams, they provide essential coordination that enables efficient, high-quality service.
Diagnostic Imaging Assistant (DIA) support clinic operations and help ensure a positive patient experience. They assist staff by greeting and preparing patients, confirming information, coordinating appointments, and guiding patients through their visit. DIAs also maintain exam rooms, manage documentation, and ensure supplies and equipment are ready. Through strong customer service, attention to detail, and teamwork, they help create a safe and organized environment.
Patient Experience Coordinators (PECs) are the first point of contact, scheduling exams and ensuring accurate patient information. They communicate clearly with patients, coordinate with care teams, and support a smooth, confidential, and customer-focused experience.
Nuclear Medical Technologists perform diagnostic nuclear medicine procedures involving sensitive and highly personal patient circumstances. They are responsible for delivering the highest standard of care in a professional, compassionate, and patient-centered manner, in accordance with provincial regulatory requirements, CAMRT standards, and Mayfair policies and guidelines.
Computed Tomography (CT) Technologists operate CT imaging equipment to produce detailed cross-sectional images of the body that assist in diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions. They prepare and position patients for scans, ensure safety protocols are followed, and administer contrast agents when required. CT technologists work closely with radiologists to ensure high-quality diagnostic images are obtained, while providing clear communication and compassionate care to support patient comfort throughout the procedure.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Technologists operates MRI scanners to produce detailed images of internal body structures used to assist in medical diagnosis and treatment planning. They are responsible for preparing and positioning patients, ensuring all safety protocols are strictly followed due to the strong magnetic field, and obtaining high-quality images as directed by radiologists. MRI technologists combine technical expertise with patient care, providing clear communication and support to ensure a safe, comfortable, and efficient imaging experience.
Diagnostic Medical Sonographers perform ultrasound exams to help diagnose and monitor medical conditions. Following Sonography Canada standards and Mayfair Diagnostics protocols, they capture accurate images while ensuring patient safety, comfort, and confidentiality. They work with radiologists and clinical teams to review requisitions, prepare patients, perform scans, and document findings, contributing to accurate diagnoses and a positive patient experience.
Medical Radiation Technologists (MRTs) perform x-ray, mammography, and BMD exams while ensuring patient safety, accuracy, and compassionate care. They also may assist in pain therapy procedures. MRTs verify patient information, explain procedures, position patients, and produce high-quality images. MRTs follow professional standards and protocols, maintaining strict radiation safety, quality assurance, and patient privacy while supporting a positive patient experience.
We foster a supportive and collaborative culture designed to encourage positive patient experiences and build strong working relationships across the organization:
Our core values shape the way we work with patients, partners, and fellow employees. And, more than anything else, they’re what set Mayfair apart. In everything we do, this is what we strive for:
EXCELLENCE
We share a commitment to high quality and excellence in all that we do. This commitment calls on all of us to achieve the very best of our capabilities and exceed our own expectations.
CURIOSITY
We innovate in everything, from services to processes. We believe meaningful change and effective problem solving come only by looking at challenges and opportunities from new angles and by exercising our creativity and curiosity.
PASSION
We show pride, enthusiasm, and dedication in everything that we do. We are committed to producing and delivering high-quality results and services. We are passionate about our industry and about our company, services, partners, and patients.
COLLABORATION
Our team is supportive of each other’s efforts; we are loyal to one another; and we care for one another both personally and professionally. We promote and support a diverse, yet unified, team. We work together to meet our common goals across Mayfair clinics, locations, and geographies. Only through collaboration on ideas, technologies, and talents can we achieve our mission and vision.
SERVICE
We take pride in delivering exceptional service every day. We listen to every request with an open mind, always looking for opportunities to go above and beyond to create memorable, personalized experiences. We take responsibility to answer our referrers’ and patients’ requests and respect their time by always responding with a sense of urgency.
Join Mayfair Diagnostics, recognized as one of Western Canada’s premier medical imaging organizations. With a century-long legacy and headquartered in Calgary, Alberta, Mayfair Diagnostics is dedicated to assisting patients in achieving clarity regarding their health.
Operating clinics in Calgary and surrounding areas, Regina, and Saskatoon, our multidisciplinary team of radiologists, technologists, and support staff collaborate seamlessly to deliver high quality patient care. Working here is more than just a job; it’s a strong step towards your future.
OUR TEAMS
We are a dedicated group of professionals who combine skill with compassion to deliver attentive care to our patients. As a reliable partner in their health care journey, we provide high-quality imaging that assists patients, physicians, and other providers in making informed health decisions. Our work goes beyond imaging; it’s about fostering relationships and positively impacting everyone we serve.
OUR VISION
We envision a world where every person has clarity about their health. We innovate and welcome change, promoting leadership and creativity through safe risk-taking. We share best practices, earn peer recognition for our work, and engage top talent to reach our goals.
We strive to be thought leaders and encourage creativity by providing a safe place for calculated risk taking.
We share best practices across our operations and are recognized by our peers for our work. We engage the best to help propel us forward in achieving our goals.
