Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Unlike X-rays or Cat Scans, MRI does not use ionizing radiation. Instead, MRI creates high-quality images using a powerful magnet along with radio waves, and a computer. Protons located inside the atoms of our bodies continually spin at random until they are placed in a magnetic field where they line up together and spin in the same direction. Directing a radio frequency signal at a body part inside the magnet disrupts this alignment and turning it off allows theprotons to go back in alignment. Different tissues go back into alignment at different rates allowing the computer to generate these high quality images.

MRI can detect certain diseases much earlier than other, more conventional, imaging techniques. Physicians can focus the scanning equipment to one part of the body at a time, taking pictures of the head, neck,back, abdomen, pelvis, shoulder, elbow, knee, ankle, foot and blood vessels.

If you would like more information on the physics of MRI please visit this link: Basic MRI

Open MRI

Open MRIis the best alternative for patient's who may be prone to claustrophobia and for patients who are too large for a High Field system. Southern Tier Imaging is the only practice in our region to offer state-of-the-art open MRI technology. Our specially designed suite complements the open, panoramic nature of this system. Patients can relax during the imaging process while viewing beautiful and peaceful back-lit landscapes on the walls and ceiling. Featuring our brand- new High Field Altaire System, this magnet produces high resolution images at faster scan speeds offering excellent total body imaging.

High Field MRI

Our Philips Infinion 1.5 tesla MRI system combines a high field, short bore, magnet and flared design to deliver state of the art images while optimizing patient comfort. These features along with our state-of-the-art software and hardware package enables us to complete most procedures in 20 to 30 minutes. The Infinion is able to perform a full range of cutting-edge MRI procedures, including Angiography and Breast Imaging.