Common MRI Questions

Open MRI

The first Open-AIR MRI in Hattiesburg with room to relax and high resolution images for an accurate diagnosis.

MRI, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is a method used by physicians to look inside the human body to obtain diagnostic information.

Now with the opening of the OPEN-MRI Imaging Center at Southern Pointe, patients requiring MRI study no longer must be squeezed into a tight tunnel or tube. Representing south Mississippi's FIRST OPEN-MRI Imaging choice, the OPEN-MRI Imaging Center at Southern Pointe is available by physician referral for the people of our region.

MRI Images are used by physicians to aid in the diagnosis of conditions such as torn cartilage or ligaments in the knee; torn rotator cuff tendons of the shoulder; a pinched nerve or ruptured disc in the back; even brain tumors.

While MRI is a painless process, many patients have felt the extreme anxitey of being pushed into a tight tube. With the OPEN-MRI, patients with claustrophobia, larger athletes/patients; or children who would need to hold a parent's hand can now recieve the benefit of a high quality non-radiation image without the tight fit.

Q. What is an MRI?
A. A way of obtaining detailed pictures of internal body structures WITHOUT radiation or radioactive substances.

Q. Why would I need an MRI?
A. Look for torn cartilage or ligaments in a knee joint; Assess a shoulder for a torn rotator cuff tendon; Check a spine for a pinched nerve or ruptured disc; Prossible brain tumor; Liver and other abdominal disorders; Traumatic injuries; Many other conditions.

Q. What are the advantages of an OPEN-MRI?
A. An OPEN-MRI is open on all 4 sides so you do not feel claustrophobic. Children can have a parent at the exam and actually hold the child's hand if necessary! Large athletes and others can be accommodated with an OPEN-MRI versus conventional MRI. Very strong magnet for high quality images giving very clear detail.

Q. What about special preparation for the OPEN-MRI study?
A. You may eat normally and go about your daily routine. Certain items will be asked to be removed prior to the OPEN-MRI study as this is a very powerful magnet (eye glasses, hearing aids, jewelry, watches, other metallic objects, removable dental work, coins, credit cards, hairpins). Some previously implanted items are a contradiction to an MRI study (Pacemaker, TENS unit, aneurysm clip, implanted drug infusion device, certain metal implants, cochlear implants, permanent eyeliner, surgical staples).

Q. How does one go about scheduling an OPEN-MRI study?
A. Physician referral is required but an individual can request their physician schedule their MRI at the OPEN-MRI Imaging Center by calling 601-554-7500 between the hours of 7 a.m. to 7p.m., Monday through Friday.

Q. What about the results of the OPEN-MRI?
A. All OPEN-MRI scans will be reviewed by a radiologist specially trained in interpreting MRI scans. Your physician will be notified within 48 working hours of the study.