MRI Scan
Leading-edge imaging technology
Magnetic Resonance Imaging at Winchester Hospital
Undergoing a magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scan can be stressful for some people. In the past, MRI scans could be uncomfortable and constricting, especially if you had anxiety or claustrophobia.
Thanks to our partnership with Shields Health Care Group, Winchester Hospital offers the latest magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology. The large, open design of our MRI machine can help reduce feelings of anxiety and claustrophobia. We provide a comfortable environment with natural outdoor lighting through exterior windows. We also offer laser imagery to simulate a skylight ceiling and music.
Our MRI technology provides you with cost-effective, high-quality imaging services close to home.
Winchester Hospital offers MRIs at our Winchester Hospital Outpatient Center at Unicorn Park.
What is MRI?
MRI is a painless diagnostic imaging test. It produces detailed, high-resolution images of the human body without the use of X-rays. The images are created using a large magnet, radio waves and a computer system.
At Winchester Hospital, we give you the opportunity to customize your MRI experience. You can select a variety of sounds, lights and scenes to help put you at ease during your scan. A friend or family member may sit with you during the exam.
Schedule an MRI
An MRI requires a doctor’s order. You also may need to have pre-approval from your insurance provider before you have an MRI. Please check with your insurance company before scheduling.
To schedule an MRI, call our office at 800-258-4674.
Preparing for Your MRI Scan
Arrive 15 minutes before your scheduled appointment time to complete any paperwork.
Once you arrive, you change into a hospital gown for the MRI exam. Avoid wearing anything with metal, such as jewelry, hearing aids or eyeglasses. This includes makeup and hair products. Some cosmetic items contain metallic particles that can interfere with the MRI scan.
Some MRI scans use a contrast agent. This agent helps a radiologist see the difference between normal and abnormal tissue more clearly. Contrast agents for MRIs are given as an IV injection. At Winchester Hospital, we use gadolinium-based agents, which are approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA).
If you have certain health conditions, like high blood pressure or kidney problems, your doctor may need to perform a blood test to see if you can safely have a contrast agent.
MRI scans typically last between 40 and 80 minutes. During the procedure, you lie on a moveable table that goes into the MRI scanner. During the exam, it is important for you to remain as still as possible.
You may hear sounds such as humming and thumping noises. These are completely normal and are created by the MRI machine. Your testing team may give you headphones so you can watch TV and movies or listen to music on your phone.
A radiologist reads the MRI results, usually within 24 hours or less. The radiology team then sends your results to the doctor who ordered the MRI. Your doctor then explains the results to you and uses the MRI to help decide the next steps of your care plan.
For most people, MRIs do not pose any risks. Some people, however, may not be able to safely have an MRI. Talk to your doctor if any of the following apply to you:
- You are or may be pregnant .
- You have:
- Brain aneurysm clips.
- Cardiac pacemaker.
- Implanted medication pumps.
- Implanted nerve stimulating devices.
- Intrauterine device (IUD).
- Any other surgically implanted or metallic object in your body.
- All jewelry and watches
- Belts
- Cell phones
- Coins
- Eyeglasses
- Hairclips and pins
- Hearing aids
- Keys
- Removable dental work
- Wallet and credit cards
Before your MRI, please remove any metal objects. These can interfere with the MRI machine. This includes:
Get Started
Take the first step on your journey toward better health.
Conditions We Treat
- Aneurysm
- Brain tumor
- Carotid artery disease (CAD)
- Headache
- Herniated disc
- Infection
- Joint injury or disease
- Multiple sclerosis (MS)
- Pinched nerves
- Spinal cord compression
- Stroke
- Traumatic brain injury
Featured Location
200 Unicorn Park Drive Woburn, MA 01801
Services & Specialties
Providers may order an MRI scan as part of your diagnosis or treatment plan. We collaborate with these providers to help you get care when you need it.
