MRI Scans
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), is a noninvasive, painless way to look inside the body to see organs and other body tissues. The purpose of an MRI is to find changes in the body that can lead to diagnosis and treatment of disease. MRI uses a large magnet, radio waves, and a computer to create images of organs and tissues. Unlike x-rays, MRI scans can “see through” bone, allowing our specialists to analyze soft tissue. MRI does not use radiation, therefore there are no known side effects.
Equipped for High Quality MRI Images
Doctors use MRI pictures to diagnose illnesses and provide appropriate treatment. MRI scans are non-invasive and completely painless.
Our Lafayette facility houses two different types of MRI machines to provide a variety of options for patients: high field MRI and open MRI. Each of our machines produces images that are stored in a digital format. After your procedure, we can quickly transmit images and our reports to your designated physicians.
Learn More About Our MRI Services
How to Prepare for an MRI Scan
No special preparation is necessary for this exam, unless otherwise instructed by your care team.
High Field MRI
This MRI system is the most common and features a circular enclosure where patients are placed for imaging. Our facility uses a 1.5 T High Field MRI with a 70 cm bore which is not available at all facilities.
Open MRI
For open MRI scans, we use the Hitachi Airis II Open MRI Imaging System. Without the typical enclosure of a high-field MRI system, the open system is more patient-friendly and still produces advanced imaging for patients who find the enclosed systems intimidating or confining.
What to Expect at Your Exam
- Before the exam, you will be asked to identify any metallic or electronic devices on or within your body, especially related to the brain or heart. The MRI machine is a large magnet, so identifying these items beforehand is very important to your safety.
- You may be asked to change clothes and wear a gown for your exam. If you wear loose clothing with no metal objects, however, you may be able to stay in your clothes.
- After the exam, you can resume your normal diet and activities.
- If your exam uses the high-field MRI and it makes you uncomfortable due to claustrophobia or confinement issues, you may request to use our open MRI system.
- After your exam, CD copies of your scans can be made at our facility. If you’d like one, ask your care team.
Make an Appointment
(337) 703-6400
(337) 703-6430 fax
1025 Kaliste Saloom Road, Suite 101
What to Bring to Your Appointment
For a stress-free exam day, patients are encouraged to complete all registration paperwork in advance and upload a copy of their insurance card and personal ID online. If this information is provided prior to the appointment, there is no need to bring it with you on exam day. Here’s a quick list of important things you should bring to your appointment:
Insurance card
*If you did not upload this online in advance of your appointment.
Identification card
Driver’s license or personal ID (if you did not upload this online in advance of your appointment)