What is MRI and how does it work ? MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. It is an advanced imaging tool that has been safely used by human doctors and radiologists for the past two decades to look with great detail at the internal structures of the body. Unlike x-rays or CT, MRI does not use ionized radiation. Instead, it uses magnetic fields and pulses of radio waves to temporarily and harmlessly energize molecules in your pet's body. As they relax these molecules give off a signal that is made into an image by the computer. The image produced gives your veterinarian and veterinary radiologist highly detailed information about abnormalities your pet may have in order to identify and specific cause of your pet's problems
 
How will an MRI help my pet? If the more common diagnostic tests have failed to determine your pet's illness, your veterinarian needs detailed information provided by the MRI. The highly detailed anatomical and physiologic information provided by the MRI allows your veterinarian to identify the true nature of your pets problem and provide your pet with the best care possible. MRI is considered the best test for imaging soft tissues, especially the brain and spine.

Is anesthesia necessary ? In order to obtain the very best images, it is necessary for your pet to lay completely still. If motion occurs, test results will be negatively affected. Since we cannot ask your pet to lay still, they must be anesthetized. Owner consent is required before anesthesia will be given.

Is the MRI painful ? No. The MRI is painless.

Is the MRI safe ? The safety of the MRI has been tested in human medicine for nearly 20 years and complications are very low. Any risk to your pet arises from the need for anesthesia during the procedure. While risks cannot be completely eliminated, we take extreme care in anesthetizing your pet. In rare instances the MRI can affect the efficacy of your pet's microchip.

To ensure your pets safety: Diagnostics, including complete bloodwork, will be performed by your family veterinarian or by the emergency hospital prior to anesthesia.
Your pet will be monitored by an experienced veterinarian and technician during the entire MRI process. Utilizing state of the art monitors, your pet's heart rate, respiratory rate, blood pressure, blood oxygen concentration and other parameters will be closely watched.

What happens on the day of the MRI ? You are to drop off your pet at the Animal Emergency Hospital before 8 am the day of the scan. Our helpful and courteous staff will be happy to answer any additional questions you have at that time. There are no “set appointments”- imaging is performed throughout the day, so we are unable to know exactly what time your pet's procedure will be performed.