Spine Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a powerful tool for screening and diagnosis. Many consider it to be the best way to detect diseases in their earliest, most treatable stage.

The exam is non-invasive, uses no radiation, and our state-of-the-art equipment offers a more comfortable imaging experience. It is invaluable for a number of reasons:

• MRI gives very clear pictures of the spine.
• It can detect subtle damage to the spine and joints in patients with herniated disks and arthritis.
• Its high resolution aids in detecting subtle injuries in ligaments and bones, which is valuable in sports medicine.
• It can perform arthrograms (an MRI of a joint after injecting a contrast medium).

HOW DO I PREPARE FOR MY EXAM?

• SASKATCHEWAN PATIENTS: Please call the clinic directly if you need to reschedule (Regina: 1-306-569-9729 ext. 3; Saskatoon: 1-306-664-8600).
• Please let us know if you are, or may be, pregnant, or if you’ve had recent surgery.
• Please also inform us if you have metal in your body. Here is a list of metal objects that may be a concern. Your technologist may ask you to remove any metallic objects, which are unsafe near the MRI magnet.
• Take all prescribed medications as directed.
• Wear comfortable clothes free of metal zippers or buttons, including metal-free underwear.
• Please arrive 30 minutes before your appointment to allow enough time to check in with reception.
• In Regina, if an X-ray is required, you will need to arrive 45 minutes before your appointment, unless it’s a 7 or 7:30 am appointment. If your MRI is scheduled outside of X-ray hours, you will need to come during X-ray hours.
• Bring photo identification and your provincial health card.
• Children may have parents in the exam room with them.

WHAT HAPPENS DURING MY EXAM?

• You may be asked to change into a gown or scrubs.
• If a contrast solution is needed, we will insert an intravenous (IV) line.
• Once the IV is in place, your technologist will position you on the cushioned scanner table in the MRI suite. We will do our best to make you comfortable.
• An MRI can be loud, so you will be provided with headphones or ear plugs to reduce the noise. Eye masks are available upon request for patients who have difficulty relaxing in a confined space. You are also given an emergency call bell to stop the exam, if needed.
• Once you are relaxed and comfortable, a sensor will be positioned around the body part being scanned. The table will then move slowly into the MRI scanner, which is well lit and ventilated.
• You will be asked to hold very still, as movement may result in blurring of images. Your technologist will be close by at all times.
• Once we have successfully captured your images, your IV will be removed (if you have one) and you are free to leave.

WHEN WILL I GET MY RESULTS?

We do our best to have our radiologists interpret the information and forward the results to your doctor in a timely manner. Please consult with your doctor regarding your results and any follow up exams or questions.

HOW MUCH WILL IT COST?

In Calgary, MRI exams are provided at our Mayfair Place location as private pay exams and are not covered by Alberta Health Care. Prices are per body area. If additional body areas are scheduled within the same appointment, discounts apply. We also offer a 10% Seniors discount (65+) that can be applied to the first MRI exam.

In Saskatchewan, we provide MRIs as a publicly funded, community-based service under contract with the Saskatchewan Health Authority and as a private pay exam. Private MRI services in Saskatchewan are provided in accordance with and under the legislation of the Province of Saskatchewan. Pricing is per body area, similar to Alberta pricing (with similar discounts).

Your health spending account or group medical insurance plan may cover the cost of a private MRI that is prescribed by a qualified health care practitioner. You will need to check with your plan administrator for coverage details.

Please note that if contrast is needed, it’s an additional cost of $250.

PLEASE NOTE:

Please bring the following to your appointment: a valid government-issued ID, your provincial health card, and your exam requisition (if you have received one).