Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) also shows detailed three-dimensional views of bones and soft tissue. MRI often provides even more details than CT. It is used, for example, for spine problems, vascular diseases, sports injuries and heart disease because it can detect even tiny tears in ligaments or muscles or small thickenings in the arteries. MRI gives radiologists the ability to clarify subtle soft tissue abnormalities, thus providing great assistance during disease treatment planning stages.
A stationary MRI, which is used for more complex cases, can be scheduled at Spectrum Health Lakeland Medical Center, Spectrum Health Lakeland Niles Hospital, and Center for Outpatient Services. Mobile MRIs allow Lakeland to provide quality care close to home, which normally would not have access to MRI technology. Prior to obtaining the mobile MRI, the backlog was five to seven days. Now, patients can get an MRI within 24 hours. A mobile MRI can be scheduled at Spectrum Health Lakeland Watervliet Hospital.
Wide bore magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) option
Spectrum Health Lakeland Hospitals in Niles and Watervliet have wide bore magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems which offer patients the optimized comfort of conventional open systems, as well as the high-quality imaging of closed systems. The high field open MRI system is 70 centimeters wide and can hold up to 550 pounds to better accommodate claustrophobic patients as well as those who cannot fit into conventional MRI machines, such as obese patients or patients with wide shoulders.
If a MRI has been ordered for you by your physician, call our central scheduling line at 800.791.2810 to schedule your test.