How Long Does an MRI Take?

August 19, 2020 – 5 min read

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Results of different types of MRI scans, an imaging study that takes different amounts of time depending on the part of the body being examined.

An MRI, which stands for magnetic resonance imaging, uses magnets and radio waves to generate detailed pictures of inside the body. Your healthcare provider then evaluates these pictures to detect any tumors, disease, injury or abnormalities. An MRI exam doesn’t use ionizing radiation and is generally safe for all patients.

Brain MRI

Duration: 12-20 minutes*

Your provider will take a close look at your brain and the surrounding nerve tissues. A brain MRI may evaluate or detect:

  • Birth defects
  • Bleeding
  • Brain abscess
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Stroke

Breast MRI

Duration: 45 minutes*

A breast MRI allows a closer look at the breasts and surrounding tissue, without using radiation. A breast MRI helps your provider:

  • Detect breast cancer
  • Evaluate a breast lump
  • Monitor breast implants for possible rupture
  • Show blood flow in breasts

American Health Imaging (AHI) offers the Accelerated Breast MRI™, also known as an abbreviated breast MRI, at some locations. An Accelerated Breast MRI exam takes between 12 to 18 minutes.

Cervical MRI

Duration: 15-20 minutes*

This exam generates pictures of the area of the spine located in the neck. A cervical MRI may evaluate or detect:

  • Arthritis in the spine
  • Injury or trauma to spine
  • Multiple sclerosis
  • Scoliosis
  • Spinal birth defects

Knee MRI

Duration: 20 minutes*

Your provider will closely examine the knee joint. A knee MRI may evaluate or detect:

  • Arthritis damage
  • Bone fractures
  • Sports-related knee injuries
  • Tumors

Lumbar Spine MRI

Duration: 15-20 minutes*

This exam generates pictures of the lower part of the spine.

A lumbar spine MRI may evaluate or detect:

  • Back pain
  • Birth defects
  • Disk herniation
  • Injury to the lower spine
  • Multiple sclerosis

Shoulder MRI

Duration: 15-20 minutes*

Your provider will closely examine the bones, tendons blood vessels and muscles in the shoulder joint. A shoulder MRI may evaluate or detect:

  • Abscess
  • Broken or fractured shoulder bone
  • Bursitis in shoulder
  • Rotator cuff tear

Why Does an MRI Take So Long?

During an MRI exam, hundreds of images—or slices—are recorded from several directions to be pieced together. Each image takes a few seconds to record.

While an MRI exam is safe and painless, patients who are claustrophobic may feel anxious at the thought of spending a half hour or more in an enclosed space. That’s why AHI offers the Advanced Open MRI by ASG. An Advanced Open MRI exam uses the same technology as a conventional MRI, without the enclosed space. Patients who choose an advanced open MRI can feel relaxed and comfortable during their screening.

Request an appointment for an advanced open MRI.

*Exam times may vary based on individual situations.

Still have questions? Learn more about MRI exams at American Health Imaging.

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