Understanding MRI and CT Scans: What to Expect at an Outpatient Imaging Center

When your doctor recommends an imaging test, it’s normal to feel a little uncertain about what to expect, especially if it’s a type of test you haven’t had before. 

While you may have had X-rays at the dentist or for diagnosing injuries or illnesses, you might not have encountered MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) or CT (computed tomography) scans, two other common types of imaging studies that work in entirely different ways.

Knowing what each scan does — and what your visit will be like — can calm your nerves and make the experience less intimidating. The good news: Invision Sally Jobe is a leading provider of state-of-the-art outpatient imaging services, including MRI scans and CT scans, so you can get the care you need in a convenient, comfortable setting. 

Here’s what to expect during your visit.

MRIs and CT Scans: The Basics

MRI scans and CT scans both create highly detailed pictures of your body’s internal components, but they do so in different ways. 

CT scans

CT scans use low doses of X-rays combined with computer technology to create thin, cross-sectional, 3D images. Each image represents a thin slice of your body. Your doctor can look at these slices individually or grouped together to gain multiple perspectives that aid in diagnosis and treatment management. 

MRI scans

MRI scans use powerful magnets and radio waves to generate images. Together, these components capture highly detailed images of your soft tissues, like your organs, muscles, ligaments, and tendons. 

Your doctor recommends the scan that’s best for you based on the area they’re imaging, the reason for the imaging, and other factors. In some cases, your doctor may order both types of scans to give more detailed information about your health.

What to expect at your visit:

Both MRI scans and CT scans are performed during outpatient visits, with a typical visit taking about 30-60 minutes (although the scan itself may be much shorter). After checking in with our staff, you change into a medical gown and remove your jewelry, glasses, and dentures. 

CT scan

For a CT scan, you lie on a motorized table that moves through the scanner. You need to lie very still so the images that are captured are as clear as possible. At some points and depending on the area being scanned, we may ask you to hold your breath for a brief period.

MRI scan 

MRIs also involve lying on a table, but while the CT table moves slowly during your scan, the MRI table slides into the MRI machine, then stays still while scans are being made. MRI scans typically take longer than CT scans, often lasting at least 30 minutes.

We use a wide-bore MRI machine with a wider opening and shorter tunnel than traditional MRI machines. This special design helps avoid feelings of claustrophobia that can occur in a traditional narrow MRI scanner.

Both scans

During both scans, you hear some noise as the machines capture images. Noises can be especially loud during your MRI, but we provide you with headphones so you can listen to music during your scan.

Some scans use a special contrast dye to enable our team and your doctor to highlight specific areas on your final images. If your doctor requires a scan with dye, we place an IV in your arm and capture images before and after the dye is injected.

We monitor you throughout the scan, and you’re able to communicate with our staff. After your session, we review your images and forward them, along with a detailed report, to your doctor so they can discuss the results with you.

State-of-the-art imaging for optimal care

Invision Sally Jobe uses the most advanced imaging systems for optimal clarity, accuracy, and peace of mind. If you have more questions about your scanning visit or the technology we use, we’re happy to help. 

To learn more or to schedule your scan, call us at 720-493-3700 to request an appointment with the team at our locations in Aurora, Greenwood Village, Golden, Littleton, Lone Tree, Parker, and Denver, Colorado, today.