When your doctor orders an MRI, odds are you answer with a groan. You might put your head in your hands, or start spouting off protests or excuses. After all, lying completely still in a metal tube is no one’s favorite way to spend time. But we all know it’s worth it in the end.

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the body. It literally offers physicians a look inside, allowing them to pinpoint areas of concern and make accurate diagnoses. MRI is often used to diagnose disorders or diseases that are not clearly detectable by X-rays or CT scans. MRI is ideal for diagnosing causes of back and neck pain and helping differentiate a minor joint sprain from something more serious. It can help diagnose a stroke within minutes, detect subtle abnormalities in breasts and organs, and help measure narrowing in blood vessels.

The good news is that MRI is relatively quick and painless. Most scans last just 30 – 45 minutes. The better news is that Eastern Radiologists now offers a bigger, wider scanner: a new Philips state-of-the-art wide bore, or open scanner. At 70cm or almost 28 inches, it is 15% larger than the traditional 60cm scanner. With new, more powerful computers and software, the scanner is faster, quieter, and produces more detailed images. This translates to unparalleled comfort and speed for patients, and premium image quality for your doctors.

“This new magnet allows us to better serve the patients of eastern North Carolina,” says Dr. Eric Martin, director of MRI. “Our goal is to improve the patient’s experience during the MRI scan by providing a more comfortable environment during a faster and quieter examination. The wider scanner will help reduce anxiety in patients and reduce the need for repeating images blurred by motion. The improved image clarity, detail, and quality will allow more detailed and definitive diagnoses for patients and their referring clinicians.”

Eastern Radiologists and Greenville MRI have upgraded both of their existing MRI scanners to the same cutting-edge software. Couple that with convenient access, night and weekend appointments, experienced staff, and board certified, specialized radiologists, and suddenly you’re seeing MRI in a new light. Because there’s comfort in a bigger space—and in knowing you’re in expert hands.

Learn more about our new open wide-bore MRI, and remember to ask your doctor for a referral to Eastern Radiologists.