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MRI
MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, a non-invasive, painless
diagnostic procedure. In fact you will not see or feel anything (some
patients fall asleep during their MRI scan.) All that is required of you
is to be as still as possible during the exam. The procedure typically
will last from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on they type of information
required by your physician. Our three new state of the art scanners can
perform Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA). MRA can non-invasively
evaluate blood vessels, like the carotids, aorta and peripheral vessels
that could previously only be imaged well by invasive catheter
angiography.The purpose of a MRI is to:
- Provide detailed images for detecting disease.
- Provide two/three-dimensional images by using a
large magnet, radio waves, and a computer.
- Effective in early detection and treatment.
MRI does not use x-rays and is absolutely painless.
A technologist will position you on the examination table. You will then
be moved into the scanner. As the equipment scans you will hear peculiar
noises. This means the scanner is doing its job.
After the exam the radiologist will provide your
physician with an interpretation of the results of your MRI scan. Your
physician can then make a diagnosis and explain the findings.
Patient Preparation
There is very little preparation for the MRI procedure. To ensure your
safety, you will be asked question regarding your medical history. You may
eat normally and go about your daily routine. Continue to take any
medications prescribed by your doctor unless otherwise directed. In
certain instances, a contrast agent may be administered by injection to
allow the images to be more distinct. Because of the magnetic field, you
will be asked to leave coins, jewelry, watches, glasses, credit cards,
keys, hairpins, and other metal objects in a safe place outside the scan
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FREQUENTLY ASKED
QUESTIONS |
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Featuring Gene Phillips, M.D.
Interventional Radiologist with Charleston Radiologists, PA
Medical Director, InvisiVein
Q. What are varicose veins?
A. Varicose veins are abnormal bulging veins below the skin surface that are unsightly and often painful. They frequently cause swelling and discomfort in the legs, especially during periods of prolonged standing. If left untreated, varicose veins can lead to permanent skin changes and sometimes ulceration.
Q. Are varicose veins only a cosmetic concern?
A. The appearance of varicose veins and spider veins (these are the smaller and more common variation of varicose veins) is the concern. However, varicose veins cause aching pain and discomfort. This condition may lead to serious problems if not treated.
Q. What new non-invasive techniques are available to treat varicose veins?
A. Surgery was the traditional treatment for varicose veins, but it’s invasive, moderately painful and has a slightly longer recovery period. Surgery requires the use of anesthesia, leaves a scar and a few incisions.
One of the newest non-invasive techniques in varicose vein removal is endovenous laser treatment (EVLT). The EVLT procedure is performed on an outpatient basis under local anesthesia, requires no incisions, and usually lasts less than an hour. An interventional radiologist, a doctor specially trained in performing minimally invasive treatments using imaging guidance, can perform EVLT.
Q. How does the EVLT procedure work?
A. With EVLT, laser energy minimizes the vein walls, shrinking them and closing the faulty vein so that the blood cannot flow through it. This eliminates the bulging of the vein at its source. After the treatment, the blood in the faulty veins will be diverted to the many normal veins in the leg.
The procedure leaves no visible scarring. There is minimal postoperative pain, and a quick recovery period gains immediate relief from symptoms. It is well documented that EVLT has a 98% initial success rate with excellent long-term results.
For more information on EVLT and varicose vein removal, visit InvisVein. |
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