MRIs, CTs, Mammograms, DEXA Scans (Bone Density), and Ultrasounds require an appointment. All other general X-rays do not need an appointment and are done on a walk-in basis only.
For all appointments: Please arrive 10 to 15 minutes prior to your exam time to complete any necessary paperwork. Paperwork may be applicable even if you have been here before.
The following are general instructions for specific exams:
MRI
- If any of the following conditions exist please notify SDI before your exam.
- Cardiac Pacemaker
- Cerebral Aneurysm Clips
- Cochlear Implants
- Implanted Insulin or Chemotherapy Pumps
- Implanted Neuro-Stimulator Devices
- Pregnancy
- Heart Valve Replacements
- Other Prosthetic Devices
- Metal Fragments in Eye (If you have worked with metal, e.g. welding/grinding, you may need an x-ray to assure there are no metal fragments)
When the screening process has been completed some patients may be asked to change into a gown. SDI offers lockers to secure your valuables, but is not responsible for lost or stolen items. Please leave all jewelry and valuables at home.
You will then be escorted to the MRI scan room to begin your exam. It is important that you lie very still while the images are being taken. An MRI Technologist will be right outside the exam room and will be able to see and hear you the entire time. If you are uncomfortable, just say so and the technologist will be right in.
CT
During the test, you will lie on a table that is attached to the CT scanner, which is a large doughnut-shaped machine. The CT scanner sends X-rays through the body area being studied. Each rotation of the scanner takes less than a second and provides a picture of a thin slice of the organ or area. All of the pictures are saved as a group on a computer. They also can be printed.
An iodine dye (contrast material) is often used to make structures and organs easier to see on the CT pictures. The dye may be used to check blood flow, find tumors, and look for other problems. The dye can be used in different ways. It may be put in a vein (IV) in your arm, or it may be placed into other parts of your body (such as the rectum or a joint) to see those areas better. For some types of CT scans you drink the dye. CT pictures may be taken before and after the dye is used.
A CT scan can be used to study all parts of your body, such as the chest, belly, pelvis, or an arm or leg. It can take pictures of body organs, such as the liver, pancreas, intestines, kidneys, bladder, adrenal glands, lungs, and heart. It also can study blood vessels, bones, and the spinal cord.
MAMMOGRAPHY
- Do not wear deodorant, lotion, powder or perfume
- Please bring any prior mammogram films with you at your appoinment time. If prior films were not taken locally, please come in to our center prior to your appointment to sign a release form so we can have them sent here by your appointment date.
DEXA SCAN
- Please wear clothing without buttons or zippers
- Please bring a list of vitamins/medications with their dosages and how long you have been taking them
- When making your appointment, please inform the office if you have had a prior DEXA scan
- Please note: DEXA scan weight limit is 300 lbs.
ULTRASOUND
Obstetrical/Pelvic
- Complete drinking 32 oz. of water 60 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time
- DO NOT EMPTY YOUR BLADDER AFTER YOU HAVE COMPLETED DRINKING THE WATER; it is essential that your bladder is full for the exam. If you are not prepared at the time of the exam, you may need to be rescheduled.
Abdomen/Liver/Pancreas/Gallbladder
- Do not eat or drink anything for at least 8 hours prior to your exam
- Eat non-fat foods the evening before your exam
Renal/Kidneys
- Do not eat for 3 hours before your exam
- Drink 16 oz of water 1 hour before your exam. Do NOT empty your bladder once you drink the water.
Breast/Thyroid/Scrotal
For all other ultrasounds (including Doppler and arterial studies) please call for preparation instructions
