Phone: (530) 543-5850
Fax: (530) 542-9550
Tim Gilliam
Medical Imaging Director
Michael Nussdorfer, M.D., Radiologist
Monday through Friday, 8:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Weekend care:
Radiologists and technologists on-call 24 hours a day, 7 days per week
Our Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive, painless procedure in which radio waves and powerful magnets linked to a computer, can create detailed pictures of internal organs and tissues. These pictures show the difference between normal and diseased tissue and can help diagnose many conditions in all parts of the body including cancer, heart and vascular disease, stroke, and joint and musculoskeletal disorders.
WHY ARE MRI SCANS IMPORTANT?
MRI scans allow doctors to see images of your internal organs and structures in great detail from many angles. This gives them information more quickly, and in many cases more economically, than past tests and exploratory surgeries.
IS AN MRI SCAN LIKE AN X-RAY?
No. An MRI scan uses a powerful magnet in conjunction with radio frequency waves to generate images of your internal organs and structures. It’s one of the least invasive tests that can see inside the body.
HOW LONG WILL THE EXAM TAKE?
That will depend on what is being studied, but a typical exam lasts between 20 to 60 minutes.You should allow extra time in case the exam lasts longer than expected.
DOES THE MACHINE MAKE A LOT OF NOISE?
The magnet makes a slight rapping sound as images are being taken. In between scans the machine is quiet. The MRI technologist will provide you with hearing protection, but its use will not prevent you from hearing the technologist if he or she speaks to you during the exam.
DO I HAVE TO HOLD STILL THE WHOLE TIME?
It is important for image clarity and the best scan results to hold still during the exam. The technologists will inform you when you may move between scans. Keep in mind a routine exam can take at least 20 minutes.
WILL I BE ALONE?
You will be in contact with a technologist at all times. Even when he or she is not in the MRI room, you will be able to talk to him or her by intercom. In some cases a family member is welcome to stay in the room with you during your scan.
For more information on our Medical Imaging Department, please call us at (530) 543-5850 or click on the brochure above. A majority of the procedures performed require a Physicians referral. Click here to see a full list of our physicians on staff, or call our Health Resource Center at (530) 543-5537 for a complete list.
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