Orthopedic doctors and surgeons use diagnostic tests to determine musculoskeletal conditions as well as the type, location, and severity of injuries. Innovative diagnostic tools, such as Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), are essential in accurately diagnosing many orthopedic problems.
At EmergeOrtho—Triangle Region, X-ray and MRI scans provide patients with the most state-of-the-art imaging services available in the Triangle Area. Operating at multiple centers throughout the area, our highly trained Technologists strive to ensure that your visit is not only convenient but relaxing and comfortable. We offer several imaging services, which your doctor selects according to your individual needs.
MRI Scans: Diagnosing Orthopedic Conditions and Injuries
Radiography (or X-ray) has long been a standard method to identify conditions such as arthritis, joint dislocations, and fractures. X-ray machines emit tiny amounts of ionizing radiation that another device captures to produce an image.
However, more advanced diagnostic technologies, including MRI scans, provide even more detailed, high-resolution images of the bones and soft tissues. MRIs are an advanced imaging technique that aids in diagnosing torn cartilage, ligaments, and muscles (particularly for issues of the spine, hip, and pelvis). Unlike X-rays, MRIs do not use radiation. Instead, it uses a powerful magnet to pass radio waves through the subject’s body. The body’s protons react to the radio waves, producing detailed images that X-rays cannot.
Three Types of MRI Options
Our EmergeOrtho—Triangle Region patients can take advantage of three different types of MRI options:
- Traditional MRI
- Open MRI
- Wide Bore MRI
1. Traditional MRI
For a traditional MRI, the patient will lay on a table which advances into a 60cm cylindrical bore. Rigid and flexible coils are used to provide detailed imaging of all parts of the patient’s body. These coils can be laid on, inside or on top of the table, or wrapped around the body part to acquire the necessary images. Most individual MRIs take approximately 15 to 45 minutes however, times can vary.
The Siemens Magnetom Avanto 1.5 Tesla scanner is located in both our main office in Durham as well as on our mobile MRI unit. You can receive traditional MRI services at one of the following locations:
Apex
910 West Williams Street
Apex, NC 27502
Burlington
1111 Huffman Mill Rd
Burlington, NC 27215
Clayton
2196 NC Highway 42 W
Clayton, NC 27520
Dunn
741-A Tilghman Drive
Dunn, NC 28334