MRI scans help diagnose issues with the brain, spine, bones, joints, soft tissues, and blood vessels. It is commonly used to evaluate conditions such as neurological disorders, joint injuries, soft tissue damage, and vascular conditions.

MRA (Magnetic Resonance Angiography) is a specialized MRI technique designed to visualize blood flow and detect issues such as aneurysms, arterial narrowing, or blockages.

Not all MRI machines are the same — and the best one for you depends on your exam, your comfort level, and your medical history. Here's a simple guide to help you understand your options at Advanced Radiology.

Open MRI Available in Jefferson City and Osage Beach

Our Open MRI is a great option if you experience anxiety or claustrophobia in enclosed spaces. The machine is open on the sides, giving you a more comfortable, less confined experience.

A few things worth knowing before your appointment:

• The clearance between the table and the scanner above is approximately 17 inches, and is less for exams that require coils, such as brain, shoulder, knee, or spine imaging
• Coils are devices placed near the area being scanned to capture clear images; for a brain MRI, for example, a coil is positioned around your head
• Our Open MRI uses a medium-strength 0.3 Tesla magnet, so most exams take between 40 and 90 minutes
• Open MRI may not be the preferred option for certain patients with pacemakers, stimulators, or other implanted devices. Please let us know about any implants when you schedule

Closed Wide-Bore MRI Available in Columbia

Our closed MRI uses a high-resolution 1.5 Tesla magnet with a generous 71cm wide-bore opening, significantly wider than traditional closed MRI tunnels, and can support patients up to 450 lbs.

A quick note on magnet strength: MRI machines are measured in Tesla (T). Think of it like a scale of magnetic power that goes up in steps: 0.3T, 1.5T, 3T, and beyond. A higher number means a stronger magnet. Stronger isn't always better, though; it depends on what's being scanned and who the patient is.

Our 1.5 Tesla magnet is widely regarded as the gold standard for general diagnostic imaging, and here's why that matters for you:

• Cleaner images for more exam types — stronger magnets can actually introduce more image distortion, particularly for abdominal, spine, and body imaging. The 1.5T consistently delivers reliable, high-quality results across a wide range of exams.
• Shorter exam times compared to Open MRI
• Safer for patients with implants — the 1.5T is the field strength most implanted devices, including many pacemakers and stimulators, are tested and approved for. Higher-strength magnets require more careful screening and can create more interference.
• Less heat — stronger magnets generate more energy absorbed by the body, which can require pausing scans to stay within safety limits. This is rarely a concern at 1.5T.

Every exam at Advanced Radiology is interpreted by our fellowship-trained radiologists who have been reading our machines for years. They know our equipment inside and out, and that familiarity translates directly into the quality and confidence of your results.

Not Sure Which is Right for You?

Our team is always happy to help. When you call to schedule, just let us know about your exam type, any implants or devices, and any concerns about comfort, and we'll make sure you're matched with the right machine and location.

At Advanced Radiology, we follow rigorous MRI safety protocols every step of the way to ensure your scan is both safe and accurate:

• We ask about safety concerns multiple times: during scheduling, check-in, before your scan, and again before entering the scan room, so that nothing is missed.
• We screen thoroughly for implants, pacemakers, metal fragments, and other devices that could be affected by MRI.
• If contrast is needed, we evaluate risks to come to a clinically appropriate decision.
• Our MRI technologists are highly trained, and our facility is accredited by the American College of Radiology (ACR), meaning we meet nationally recognized standards for imaging quality and patient safety.

You can trust that your exam is being performed in an environment that puts safety, precision, and your peace of mind first.

MRI contrast, usually gadolinium, is an injectable substance used to enhance the images of certain tissues or blood vessels. It is safe, easy to tolerate, and administered intravenously (IV) or directly into the joint for specific exams.

Please inform us if you have any of the following, as MRI/MRA may not be suitable for you:

• Cardiac pacemaker
• External glucose monitor
• Pain or insulin pump
• Ear implant
• Aneurysm clip
• Stent or metal sutures
• Metal fragments (including in the eyes)
• Pregnancy (discuss with your healthcare provider)

• Medications: Take any prescribed medications with a sip of water.
• Previous Imaging: Bring any prior imaging to help our radiologists compare your current results.
• Disclose: Inform staff of any metal, implants, pacemakers, and other devices that may be in or on your body.
• Clothing: Wear comfortable clothes without metal zippers, buttons, or glitter, and be ready to remove all hairpieces, pins, clips, and/or barrettes.
• Preparation for Claustrophobia or Pain: If you experience claustrophobia or discomfort, please notify your healthcare provider or us before the exam.
• Pre-medication: If this is required, you’ll need a driver for your appointment.

Your technologist will guide you through each of the following steps to ensure a comfortable and smooth experience.

• Changing: You may be asked to change into a gown or shorts for the procedure.
• Comfort: Our technologist will assist you onto the exam table and make sure you're comfortable.
• Noise: The MRI machine makes loud noises, but earplugs will be provided for your comfort.
• Staying Still: It's important to remain still during the exam to ensure the best image quality

The typical MRI exam lasts about an hour, though the exact time depends on the specific exam ordered by your doctor.