Cochise Oncology

Share This Post

How Long Does an MRI Take?

Has your oncologist told you that you might need an MRI? If so, you’ll want to read this post. In it, we discuss what MRIs are, why people get them, and some of the benefits they offer.

What is an MRI?

MRI stands for “magnetic resonance imaging.” It’s a technique that takes pictures inside your body using a combination of powerful magnets, radiowaves and computer software. Doctors typically use MRIs to identify possible diseases and check your response to treatment. Critically, MRI scans don’t use ionizing radiation (as x-rays do) protecting your cells.

Why Do People Get MRI’s?

Patients get MRIs at Cochise Oncology for a vast array of reasons. The purpose of the scan depends on the area of the body being imaged.

Bones and joints: Scans of these areas check for herniated disks in the spine, problems with nerve signal transmission, bone infections, joint damage and cancer.
Heart and blood vessels: These scans look for heart disease, issues with the structure of the heart, blocked blood vessels, and scarring
Brain and spinal cord: These scans identify conditions such as multiple sclerosis (MS), stroke and cancer. They also look for inner ear disorders, eye problems and blood vessel injuries.

Because MRIs are a generic technique, the list of possible uses for them is long. So, in addition to the above use cases, Cochise Oncology’s physicians will often recommend MRIs for people with breast, liver, pancreatic, prostate and kidney cancer as well.

REQUEST A CONSULTATION

Simply fill out the form on this page to request an appointment and one of our knowledgable team members will reach out to you. Or call our Sierra Vista oncology center to schedule directly at (520) 803-6644.

How Long Will an MRI Take?

How long an MRI scan takes depends on the area of the body your doctor wants to study. Brain MRIs usually take between 12 and 20 minutes to complete, whereas a breast MRI can take up to 45 minutes.

MRIs take a long time to complete because they take many hundreds of images of your tissue in slices. They then build this up into a three-dimensional representation that doctors can study.

Factors that affect MRI duration include:

The number of images required for a detailed analysis: MRIs take less time to complete if doctors require fewer images
The use of contrast dyes: Sometimes, you’ll receive a dye administered through an IV drip to make internal structures easier for doctors to see. These typically increase scanning time by 10 to 15 minutes
Any sedatives given: For instance, if you have claustrophobia, doctors may prescribe a sedative to help you relax during the procedure.
The part of your body being scanned: Larger areas take longer.

Benefits of MRI Testing

The main benefit of MRI testing is that it provides greater soft tissue contrast than many other types of scan, including CT scans. For instance, it can tell the difference between water, fat, muscle and many other tissues, providing a resolution that most other imaging techniques cannot. Furthermore, it does not involve sending vast quantities of ionizing radiation through the body, which makes it safer to use long term.

Testimonials

*Individual Results May Vary

★★★★★ 5/5

At Cochise Oncology, we know optimal cancer treatment places the patient first – and our patients experience this every day. Read what our satisfied patients are saying about their experiences at Cochise Oncology.

From the time I walked in the door, I was treated with care and compassion. The gals up front knew my name from the second day on. Everyone I came in contact with was super! I saw a smiling, kind, compassionate and knowledgeable face from the time I walked in, to the time I walked out. When I asked a question - I got an answer. I was scared. I was anxious. They handled me with grace and that isn't easy. I saw the staff for one reason or another for 30 days straight. I never saw grumpy, angry or an unkind face. I'm getting ready to start the rest of my treatment. I go to my appointments knowing I'm in good - no great hands!

The ladies that work the front desk are very nice and go above and beyond. My Father is a Veteran had some issues navigating the VA system. They called Antonio on his cellphone who is their PR person and a Vet himself he walked my Father through the process in terms a old soldier would understand which my Father really appreciated. Everything got approved for his treatments and he has a new friend to meet up with at the VFW!!! Having them go that extra step made all the difference. THANK YOU COCHISE ONCOLOGY!!!

Fantastic staff! Receptionists are very professional. They are knowledgeable as to my copay amount and always provide me with a receipt. Very friendly! Dr. Klarnett is extremely friendly, very compassionate and providing me with solutions to my problem. Casey the insurance verification clerk is outstanding in regards to prior authorization. Explains in detail what is involved in your treatment plan, co-pays, and penalty if you do not show up for treatment. It's good to know your out of pocket charge if you don't follow her instructions. Meagan is super nurse! Always so friendly. Always a smile on her face while she is multitasking in between patients. Very compassionate, personal, and a joy to talk to. Overall I like coming here for my labs and care.

Take the Next Step

Are you ready to learn more about MRI treatments? Reach out to Cochise Oncology at (520) 803-6644 or fill out the consultation form on this page. We look forward to meeting you!