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General Questions
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Where is Pocono MRI and Diagnostic Center located?
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You can find directions to our office
here.
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Where can I park?
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We have a parking lot located on the side of our
building. We also have handicap parking and a ramp
for wheelchair access. If you need a wheelchair
or assistance into the building, please call us
ahead of time or have the person accompanying you
come into the building and ask one of our staff
members for assistance.
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Does my scan need to
be pre-authorized by my insurance?
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Some insurance policies require pre-authorization.
Our patients account department is staffed from
8 a.m. until 5 p.m. and is ready to assist you in
obtaining pre-authorization when necessary. We will
also verify insurance benefits for out patients
so they are aware of how their policy will cover
the cost of the scan. This is for your own protection.
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Do you bill insurance?
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Our Patients Accounts department will bill your
health insurance, workers' compensation carrier,
or auto insurance. We are participating providers
with various insurance companies. Click here for a complete list of insurances that we participate with. We also accept
Medicare and Medical Assistance. Our billing personnel
work closely with patients, verifying and explaining
their benefits and answering any questions that
may arise.
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Why do you need any other
x-rays and CT scans?
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The more information that your MRI specialist
has about the body part being scanned when they
review your study, the more specific the interpretation
will be. Comparisons with other studies are often
necessary to determine changes so that we can make an accurate diagnosis.
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Will the results of
my scan be kept confidential?
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Yes. The results will only be shared with your
referring physician and no one else without YOUR
permission.
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When and
from whom will I get my results?
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Our radiologists will interpret your scan,
it will get transcribed, signed, faxed, and mailed or
hand carried to your doctor. Your doctor may have scheduled
a follow-up appointment for you to review your results
with them a few days after the scan. Others prefer to
call you with the results. In most cases, your doctor
will have already explained to you when and how they
will talk to you about your results. However, if there
is any question, check with your doctor to see what
their preference is. If your doctor has requested you
to come directly from Pocono MRI and Diagnostic Center
to their office, a CD of the scan ora copy of the films
can be made for you to take with you to your doctor
shortly after your study is completed. Most patients
can expect to hear from their doctor within 2-3 days
after the scan. If you have an appointment to see your
doctor in a follow-up, and if your doctor has requested
that you bring your films with you, please let us know
ahead of time and we can have your films ready for you
to pick up. Please do not ask the technologist or staff
for your results. Only your physician or his/her staff
can give your results to you.
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MRI
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Is it a problem if I am
breast-feeding or pregnant?
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Although MRI does not use radiation, it has not
been totally established whether MRI is completely
safe to the unborn fetus, especially in the first
trimester. We prefer not to scan pregnant women
unless the patients Physician thinks it is necessary
to the patient's well being. If you think you might
be pregnant, you must have a pregnancy test done
or wait until your menstural period before we can
scan you. If you are breast-feeding, an unehnanced
routine MRI is no problem. HOWEVER, if there is
the possiblity of your scan being enhanced with
the contrast media, you should plan on bottle-feeding
the baby for 48 hours after the scan until the contrast
material has passed out of your system.
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What does MRI mean and
how is it different from an MRA?
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MRI, Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is an imaging
technique used primarily to produce high quality
images inside the human body without using x-rays.
MRI scanner literally scans every millimeter of
the body part and can pick up the minutest detail.
Images are produced with the use of a powerful magnetic
field, radio waves, and a sophisticated computer
system that converts this detailed information into
a 2 or 3-dimensional map. This is then interpreted
by our radiologist. The procedure is safe, painless,
and, in many cases, saves the cost of hospitalization
and numerous other studies.
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What is the difference
between an MRI and a CT Scan?
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A CT scan is a specialized type of X-ray. The
results are translated into images that look like
a "slice" of the body part. Contrast,
which is iodine-based is sometimes used. CT scans
are also good for imaging bone. The major difference
is that an MRI uses a large magnet and radio waves
to produce images while a CT scanner uses X-rays.
Therefore, with the MRI studies, there is no exposure
to X-rays. Contrast agents are also used in MRI
however they do NOT contain iodine agents. MRI is
superior when it comes to soft tissue contrast,
and there are no known side effects.
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What does an MRI scanner
look like?
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We have a "high field", state-of-the-art,
scanner. While having an MRI scan, you will be comfortably
positioned on the table, usually on your back, with
a small cushion under your knees. The table lifts
up and slides into a cylindrical-shaped tube that
is kept open at both ends during your entire scan.
Your head is very near one end and your feet are
very near, or out, of the other. We also have a
state-of-the-art "open" scanner. The "high
field" MRI will scan faster than the "Open"
scanner because of magnet size but both produce
images of comparable quality.
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How do I prepare for
my scan?
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| Preparation
for your MRI is very simple. At the time your
appointment is scheduled you will usually be informed
about what you should wear and bring with you
when you come in. You will be asked several questions
regarding your past medical history. We will ask
for any pertinent insurance information from you
and assist in any pre-authorizations, which may
be required by your insurance company. In addition,
we ask that you arrive 15-20 minutes early for
your appointment and that you bring your insurance
card(s) and any related diagnostic tests (x-rays,
CT scans, etc of the same body part that is being
scanned.) with you. You may bring your own CD
to listen to music during the procedure. If you
are being medicated at the MRI Center, please
arrive an hour early and come with someone who can drive you back.
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Is there
any type of preparation as far as eating prior to
the scan?
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For most MRI studies, there is no
special preparation prior to the scan There are
no fasting or dietary restrictions associated with
having an MRI. You may also take any medications
you are currently prescribed by your physician.
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What happens
if I can't lay still or want to get off the table?
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The technologist will be in constant
contact with you while you are being scanned via
an intercom system.You will be given a small rubber
ball which you can squeeze to get the technicians
attention. If you feel uncomfortable at any time
during the scan, you can speak to the technologist
and they will assist you accordingly.
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Can you scan
my whole body while I'm in there?
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No. This is one way that an MRI differs
from some other scans. With the MRI scanner, we
can image just about any part of the body; however,
each scan is limited to a specific body part or
area. Each area we scan takes from 30-60 minutes.
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Why do I
have to have my whole body in the scanner if you
are only scanning my head? Will I go in head first
or feet first?
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The part of the scanner that takes the
pictures is located in the center of the scanner. Therefore,
in order to do a scan of your head, most of your body
must slide into the scanner for proper positioning.
The same is true for other studies of the spine and
upper extremities.The body part that needs to be scanned
needs to be in the middle so this determines wether
you will go in head first or feet first.In order to
get the best possible images we have specialized “coils”.
Depending on the part of the body that needs to be scanned
we may use the coil specialized for that body part for
example, the knee coil, for the Knee.
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Why do you
want to know about metal implants in my head if
I'm having my back scanned?
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Surgically implanted metallic pins,
wires, rods, etc. are usually okay to be scanned,
as are hip or knee/shoulder replacements, etc. All
dental implants and fillings are also okay. However,
certain metallic devices can cause interference
with the scan, and their presence during the study
may cause injury to you if the force of the magnet
pulls the metal object. It is particularly important
for us to know if you have a pacemaker, a defibrillator,
a muscle stimulator or other implanted electrical
device, a history of heart or brain surgery, brain
aneurysm clips, shrapnel, or a history of getting
metal fragments in your eyes. When you have the
scan, even though we are focusing on one specific
area, your whole body does go into the scanner.
In fact, just walking into the scanning room puts
you within the magnetic field since the magnet is
never turned "off." That is why we have
to know about metal anywhere in/on your body. You
will be asked on numerous occasions about any metal
implants. Please try to be as thorough as possible
when answering as this is for your safety.
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How long will my scan take?
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The average MRI study takes about
30-45 minutes. Some scans may be shorter and some
a little longer.
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Cardiac
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What is CT scanning of the body?
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CT scanning—sometimes called CAT scanning—is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat medical conditions.
CT imaging combines special x-ray equipment with sophisticated computers to produce multiple images or pictures of the inside of the body. These cross-sectional images of the area being studied can then be examined on a computer monitor or printed.
CT scans of internal organs, bone, soft tissue and blood vessels provide greater clarity and reveal more details than regular x-ray exams.
Using specialized equipment and expertise to create and interpret CT scans of the body, radiologists can more easily diagnose problems such as cancers, cardiovascular disease, infectious disease, trauma and musculoskeletal disorders.
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What are some common uses for a CT Scan?
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CT imaging is:
- One of the best and fastest tools for studying the chest, abdomen and pelvis because it provides detailed, cross-sectional views of all types of tissue.
- Often the preferred method for diagnosing many different cancers, including lung, liver and pancreatic cancer, since the image allows a physician to confirm the presence of a tumor and measure its size, precise location and the extent of the tumor's involvement with other nearby tissue.
- An examination that plays a significant role in the detection, diagnosis and treatment of vascular diseases that can lead to stroke, kidney failure or even death. CT is commonly used to assess for pulmonary embolism (a blood clot in the lung vessels) as well as for abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA).
- Invaluable in diagnosing and treating spinal problems and injuries to the hands, feet and other skeletal structures because it can clearly show even very small bones as well as surrounding tissues such as muscle and blood vessels.
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What are the benefits of a CT Scan?
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- CT scanning is painless, noninvasive and accurate.
- A major advantage of CT is that it is able to image bone, soft tissue and blood vessels all at the same time.
- Unlike conventional x-rays, CT scanning provides very detailed images of many types of tissue as well as the lungs, bones, and blood vessels.
- CT examinations are fast and simple; in emergency cases, they can reveal internal injuries and bleeding quickly enough to help save lives.
- CT has been shown to be a cost-effective imaging tool for a wide range of clinical problems.
- CT is less sensitive to patient movement than MRI.
- CT can be performed if you have an implanted medical device of any kind, unlike MRI.
- A diagnosis determined by CT scanning may eliminate the need for exploratory surgery and surgical biopsy.
- CT is less sensitive to patient movement than MRI.
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How should I prepare for the CT scan?
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You should wear comfortable, loose-fitting clothing to your exam. You may be given a gown to wear during the procedure.
Metal objects including jewelry, eyeglasses, dentures and hairpins may affect the CT images and should be left at home or removed prior to your exam. You may also be asked to remove hearing aids and removable dental work.
You may be asked not to eat or drink anything for several hours beforehand, especially if a contrast material will be used in your exam. You should inform your physician of any medications you are taking and if you have any allergies to food or medications.
Also inform your doctor of any recent illnesses or other medical conditions, and if you have a history of heart disease, asthma, diabetes, kidney disease or thyroid problems. Any of these conditions may increase the risk of an unusual adverse effect.
Women should always inform their physician and the CT technologist if there is any possibility that they are pregnant.
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What does the CT scanner look like?
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The CT scanner is typically a large, box like machine with an opening in the center, similar to a donut. You will lie on an examination table that slides into and out of this opening. The computer workstation that processes the imaging information is located in a separate room, where the technologist operates the scanner and monitors your examination. |  |
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How is the CT performed?
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The technologist begins by positioning you on the CT examination table, usually lying flat on your back or possibly on your side or on your stomach. Pillows may be used to help you maintain the correct position during the exam.
If contrast material is used, it will be swallowed (Barium) and or injected through an intravenous line (IV).
Next, the table will move quickly through the scanner to determine the correct starting position for the scans. Then, the table will move slowly through the machine as the actual CT scanning is performed.
You may be asked to hold your breath during the scanning.
When the examination is completed, you will be asked to wait until the technologist brings you a CD of your study. You may be requested to bring it with you when you follow up with your physician.
CT scanning of the body usually lasts between five and 30 minutes.
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What will I experience during the CT procedure?
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Most CT exams are painless, fast and easy.
If you have a hard time staying still, due to claustrophobia or have chronic pain, you may find a CT exam to be stressful. The technologist or nurse, under the direction of a physician, may offer you a mild sedative to help you tolerate the CT scanning procedure. In this instance you must have a driver with you.
If an intravenous contrast material is used, you will feel a slight pin prick when the needle is inserted into your vein. You may have a warm, flushed sensation during the injection of the contrast materials and a metallic taste in your mouth that lasts for a few minutes. Occasionally, a patient will develop itching and hives, which can be relieved with medication. If you become light-headed or experience difficulty breathing, you should notify the technologist or nurse, as it may indicate a more severe allergic reaction. A radiologist or other physician will be available for immediate assistance.
If the contrast material is swallowed (Barium), you may find the taste mildly unpleasant; however, most patients can easily tolerate it. We suggest that you refrigerate the barium to give it a more pleasant taste.
You will be alone in the exam room during the CT scan, however, the technologist will be able to see, hear and speak with you at all times.
After a CT exam, you can return to your normal activities. If you received contrast material, you may be given special instructions.
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Who will interpret my CT?
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Our board certified radiologist with expertise in supervising and interpreting radiology examinations, will analyze the images and send a signed report to your primary care or referring physician, who will discuss the results with you. If the study is emergent the radiologist will contact your referring physician.
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Cardiac CT
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What is a Coronary CT Angiogram?
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| The coronary CT angiogram that we do at PMRI is actually one of the most comprehensive ways of imaging the heart and coronary arteries. The first thing and most important thing that we want to look at are the coronary arteries themselves. We actually look inside the coronary arteries to assess if there is any hard plaque, or calcified plaque commonly called artherosclerosis, or any soft plaque or inflammation inside the artery itself we'll take a look to see if any of that plaque inside the artery is causing blockage or obstruction of the artery and if it is, we want to measure exactly how much blockage or obstruction it is causing.
Once we've looked at the coronary arteries, we'll turn our attention to the rest of the heart where we look inside the heart to see the valves themselves, we'll look at the heart muscle to make sure there isn't any thinning or thickening of the heart muscle and to assure that the oxygenation or blood flow throughout the heart muscle is uniform. Then we will look at the actual pumping of the heart to assess the efficiency with which the main pumping chambers are pumping. We want to make sure that the walls of the pumping chambers are all moving uniformly.
Finally, we'll look at the envelope surrounding the heart and we'll look at the tissues around the heart such as the lungs and the spine, behind the heart.
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What is Calcium Scoring?
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| Until recently, the older technology available limited CT scanning of coronary arteries to the so-called calcium scoring. This is a test that would provide a rough indication of how much calcification of hardening or the arteries there was in, near, or around the coronary arteries. Unfortunately, we couldn't see inside the coronary arteries to tell whether the calcification is causing any blockage or not and the test has not been covered by insurance.
The state-of-the-art technology now available at PMRID allows us to actually look inside the coronary arteries to see if there's any hard plaque or any soft plaque that is causing blockage and if it is causing blockage we're able to see exactly to what extent it's causing blockage or obstruction of the coronary arteries.
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How long does this procedure take?
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Actual time in the scanner is about 15 minutes. Only 15 seconds of a heart rate of 55 is needed. You should plan on arriving 1 hour prior to scan time to ensure proper preparedness, during which time we will review your medical history, physical findings as well as do the actual CT scan. It may take longer depending on your medical history and your response to the heart slowing medication. Please review the enclosed Patient Information Sheet for additional information.
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Do I need a medical referral?
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You do need a medical referral to come in for the exam. This should be provided by your ordering physician. Please remember to bring this with you on the day of your exam.
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Is this an outpatient procedure?
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Unlike a cardiac catheterization, this procedure is non-invasive and done on a completely outpatient basis.
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When will I get my results?
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All procedures are read within 48 hours. Once the images are processed and reviewed, your cardiologist or someone from our clinical staff will contact you to review the results. A written report will be prepared and a copy will be sent to your family physician.
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Is the procedure safe?
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The CT scan of the coronary arteries is considered a very safe procedure. It's called a non-invasive procedure as compared to a cardiac catheterization, which is considered an invasive procedure with a certain level of risk.
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What if you find I have heart disease?
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If any problems are detected, your Primary Care Physician/Cardiologist will develop a plan to treat your heart disease. Treatment plans may include exercise, diet, medications, intervention, such as angioplasty or stent or any combination of the above therapies.
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Is the procedure covered by insurance?
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Most private insurance companies cover the cost of this procedure. If you have any questions or any doubt one of our financial counselors Marcella, 570-517-5133 will be happy to contact your insurance company and confirm coverage for you.
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What does this procedure cost?
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We are in-network with most commercial carriers. After the procedure we will bill your insurance company for the cost of the procedure. Approximately 30-45 days after your exam, you will receive an Explanation Of Benefits (EOB) from your insurance company. At that point you will also receive a statement from us. You will only be billed for any balance left after applying discounts and payments from your insurance carrier. If you have any questions about insurance coverage, we are always available to answer your questions. Please call us at 570-517-5133 with any questions you may have concerning coverage.
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Ultrasound
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What is an Ultrasound?
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Ultrasound uses high frequency sound waves to produce images. Sound waves are sent and received through a small hand held device known as a transducer. The returning sound waves are used to produce the images. New ultrasound technology allows us to look in great detail at soft tissue abnormalities around joints, tendons, and muscles. In experienced hands, it is a highly accurate technique, which can be used to diagnose a large variety of soft tissue abnormalities. Hospital for Special Surgery has expertise in musculoskeletal ultrasound which is not readily available at routine ultrasound departments.
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Why has my doctor ordered an ultrasound?
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Ultrasound provides information for your doctor about the specific soft tissue structure being examined,
or about the blood flow in vessels within the soft tissues. You may also be familiar with the term Dopplet imaging, which provides blood flow information in both artereies and veins.
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Who performs and interprets ultrasound?
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The ultrasound examination will be performed by a certified ultrasound technologist,
who has received training by an accredited institution, and is ACR certified to perform ultrasound examinations.
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How is the ultrasound performed?
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The individual being examined is either seated comfortably in a padded table. Depending on the area to be examined,
it may be necessary for you to wear a gown. A clear gel is applied to the area being applied to the area being examined.
The ultrasound transducer is placed directly on the gel to produce images.
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What should I do to prepare for the ultrasound?
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In most instances, no particular preparation is required. Depending on the area being
examined, some initial preparation may be necessary. When looking at the gall bladder,
several hours of fasting prior to the exam is required, or when looking at the pelvic organs, it will be
necessary to drink water to fill up the bladder. The necessary information will be provided to you at the
time the specific exam is scheduled.
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What are the risks?
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Ultrasound uses non-ionizing radiation and is extremely safe. You may be
familiar with the role of ultrasound when it has been used to study the fetus in all phases of development.
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What can I expect after the ultrasound examination?
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Following an ultrasound examination performed only for diagnostic purposes, you will be
able to immediately resume your pre-examination activities.
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What happens with the results?
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After the examination, information will be reviewed by the radiologist in order to generate a written report for your referring doctor. You will be given a CD if requested by your ordering physician.
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XRay
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Why do I need an X-ray?
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Your ordering physician has ordered an x-ray to help determine the best course of treatment. Some reasons for ordering X-rays are:
a) look for a fracture or pathology
b) chest x-ray to diagnose pneumonia
c) to aid in a diagnosis
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Are X-rays dangerous?
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As with an exposure to radiation there is always some danger. However, new and improved technology has reduced the amounts of radiation you are exposed to. You and your physician can discuss any concerns you may have.
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What if I am pregnant?
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Always inform your physician and X-ray technologist if you are or may be pregnant. The decision to have the X-ray will be made by you and your physician.
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Can you see muscle or ligament damage?
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X-rays show mainly the bony structure. In some instances fluid in the joint space can be visualized. Your physician may order other testing if he/she feels it is warranted for a proper diagnosis.
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Who will read the X-ray?
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Your X-rays will be read by our onsite board certified radiologist. A report will be generated and faxed to your ordering physician. If your physician requires an immediate report the radiologist will contact your physician immediately.
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What preparations do I need to do before my X-ray?
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You may be asked to remove any jewelry and wear a gown during your X-ray examination. Metals will obsure the images causing repeat X-rays.
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