Prompt Results
Book Appointment or Walk-ins are Welcome
Most insurances are accepted
Board Certified Radiologists
Comfortable Environment
At Alliance, we use both open and closed, high-field MRIs and MRAs. Scan times usually take less than half an hour, and patients can listen to music as well as have a family member or friend in the MRI suite during the exam to help enhance patient comfort.
All MRI exams and reports are readily available to referring physicians.
MRI Imaging Services
Closed MRI Scans
A closed MRI is a traditional method for this procedure. It consists of being placed within a capsule-like machine that uses a large magnet and radio waves to send and receive signals from the body. Due to the detailed images produced from this procedure, doctors can accurately diagnose the area affected and tailor your recovery treatment.
Open MRI Scans
Unlike closed MRI scans, Open MRIs are entirely open on two sides. This machine only uses top and bottom magnets to examine the body. This is typically advised for anyone with claustrophobia or runs the risk of a panic attack. Additionally, with patients who are overweight, this may be the only way to perform tests.
What to expect?
- Before the scan, you will have to fill out a screening form that helps identify any red flags that can interfere with the imaging procedure or cause a health risk. This could be being pregnant, metal within your body, pacemaker, etc.
- Day of scan, you will be prompted to remove any jewelry or piercings before entering the MRI machine.
- Remove clothing and use gown given.
- In the event your doctors asked for further detection, an IV will be placed in your arm or hand.
- You will lie on the table which will move you inside the machine and may hear sounds from the machine. This will approximately take about 30-45 mins.
Common areas MRI Scans are performed
- Abdomen MRI
- Brain MRI
- Knee MRI
- Neck MRI
- Pelvis MRI
- Shoulder MRI
- Spine MRI
- Wrist MRI
FAQ
How Safe are MRI's?
MRIs are safe and not invasive. These scans do not employ any harmful x-rays but instead use harmless magnetic fields and radio frequencies.
Due to these magnetic fields, though, patients will be required to remove all wearable metals before receiving an MRI. It is also because of this reason that patients with any metal implant devices, such as a pacemaker, may not be the best candidate for MRI exams. MRI machines can also be loud, and ear protection is provided for those receiving a scan.
How does an MRI machine work?
An MRI scanner operates by creating a precise magnetic field. After that, radio waves are utilized within this magnetic field to cause the hydrogen protons that exist in the body to vibrate, which then emit frequencies. A special antenna, commonly referred to as a coil, collects these vibrations and sends them to a computer. The computer then converts these frequency readings into an understandable language.
What is an MRI?
An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a medical imaging technique that is utilized to form pictures of the body’s internal anatomy. It is a safe method used that employs a magnet and radio waves and does not require additional x-rays or invasive procedures.
Find an Alliance MRI Location for an Affordable MRI in Houston
Please contact Alliance MRI for more information on our MRI services and other services listed below in Houston or to find a location closest to you
- Arthrogram capabilities
- X-rays
- CT scanning
- Ultrasound
- iStat Equipment to conveniently check blood levels before administering contrast dye.
*Please note that not all equipment is available at all centers; please check your preferred location for details on services
At Alliance, we use both open and closed, high-field MRIs and MRAs. Scan times usually take less than half an hour, and patients can listen to music as well as have a family member or friend in the MRI suite during the exam to help enhance patient comfort.
All MRI exams and reports are readily available to referring physicians.