What is an MRI? Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the inside of the body. This noninvasive medical imaging technology does not depend on the ionizing radiation found in CT scans and X-rays. MRI can be used to evaluate bones, joints, internal organs, the spinal cord, and brain and breast tissue. MRAs, or angiograms, are a kind of MRI that specifically look at blood vessels. With its ultra-light, flexible AIR coils and larger, 2.3-foot opening, the cutting-edge GE Artist scanner at SOFHA delivers a new level of patient comfort. We are excited to offer claustrophobia-friendlier, “feet first” scans along with your choice of music on most exams. You will also enjoy faster scan times (15–30 minutes for most single exams). Our goal is to provide the best-possible experiences using the latest patient-focused technology. General MRI / MRA Prep 1. Wear loose-fitting, comfortable clothing with minimal metal zippers, buttons, hooks, and similar hardware. Do not wear “performance” specialty fabrics (e.g., moisture-wicking, odor-repellant, sun-protecting, Copper Fit, Dri-FIT, etc.). If you do not have access to proper clothing, we will provide a gown or scrub pants as needed. 2. Please wear as little jewelry as possible. 3. If you have an insulin pump or a TENS unit, you will be asked to remove it before your scan. 4. Glucose monitors and medication skin patches cannot be worn during your scan. 818 Sunset DriveSuite 100Johnson City, TN 37604 Lobby Hours: Mon – Fri, 7:00 am – 5:00 pm Business Hours: Mon – Fri, 7:30 am – 5:00 pm (423) 433-6550 (423) 232-8575 For Your Safety Make sure your doctor and scan tech know if you have any of the following devices, implants, or conditions BEFORE your appointment: Aneurysm clips or coilsCardiac pacemaker or pacemaker wiresCardiac defibrillatorClaustrophobia requiring IV sedation Hearing instruments (e.g., cochlear implants)Infusion pumps or dosage devices for medicationsNeurostimulator (e.g., spinal cord, brain, bladder, etc.)Metal breast tissue expandersMetalworkPenile implantPregnant Specific MRI/MRA Scan Prep In addition to the general guidance noted above, each type of MRI or MRA scan has its own unique requirements. Please find your scan below for additional preparatory instructions. MRI Abdomen Without Contrast No prep is required for this exam. You may take medications as needed with water. No oral contrast is required for this exam. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRI Abdomen Without and With Contrast Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to exam (other than water). You may take medications as needed with water. No oral contrast is required for this exam. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRCP Abdomen Without and With Contrast Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to exam (other than water). You may take medications as needed with water. No oral contrast is required for this exam. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRCP Abdomen Without Contrast Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to exam (other than water). You may take medications as needed with water. No oral contrast is required for this exam. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRI Brain Without Contrast No prep is required for this exam. You may take medications as needed with water. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRI Brain Without and With Contrast Drink extra fluids (water preferred, avoid caffeine) to allow for easier IV access. You may take medications as needed with water. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRI Breast Without Contrast You will check in at the Comprehensive Breast Center in Johnson City for your appointment. No prep is required for this exam. You may take medications as needed with water. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRI Breast Without and With Contrast You will check in at the Comprehensive Breast Center in Johnson City for your appointment. Drink extra fluids (water preferred, avoid caffeine) to allow for easier IV access. You may take medications as needed with water. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRI Enterography Without and With Contrast Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to exam, other than water. You may take medications as needed with water. You will need to arrive 5 hours prior to your scheduled appointment time to drink the oral contrast. MRI Extremities Without Contrast No prep is required for this exam. You may take medications as needed with water. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRI Extremities Without and With Contrast Drink extra fluids (water preferred, avoid caffeine) to allow for easier IV access. You may take medications as needed with water. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRI IAC Without and With Contrast Drink extra fluids (water preferred, avoid caffeine) to allow for easier IV access. You may take medications as needed with water. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRI Pelvis Without and With Contrast (Rectal Protocol Only) Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to exam, other than water. You may take medications as needed with water. No oral contrast is required for this exam. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRI Pelvis Without Contrast Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to exam, other than water. You may take medications as needed with water. No oral contrast is required for this exam. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRI Pelvis Without Contrast No prep is required for this exam. You may take medications as needed with water. No oral contrast is required for this exam. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRI Pelvis Without and With Contrast Drink extra fluids (water preferred, avoid caffeine) to allow for easier IV access. You may take medications as needed with water. No oral contrast is required for this exam. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRI Pituitary Without and With Contrast Drink extra fluids (water preferred, avoid caffeine) to allow for easier IV access. You may take medications as needed with water. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRI Soft Tissue Neck Without and With Contrast Drink extra fluids (water preferred, avoid caffeine) to allow for easier IV access. You may take medications as needed with water. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRI Spine Scan (Cervical, Thoracic, or Lumbar) Without Contrast No prep is required for this exam. You may take medications as needed with water. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRI Spine Scan (Cervical, Thoracic, or Lumbar) Without and With Contrast Drink extra fluids (water preferred, avoid caffeine) to allow for easier IV access. You may take medications as needed with water. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRA Abdomen Without and With Contrast Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to exam, other than water. You may take medications as needed with water. No oral contrast is required for this exam. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRA Brain Without Contrast No prep is required for this exam. You may take medications as needed with water. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRA Chest Without and With Contrast Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to exam, other than water. You may take medications as needed with water. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRA Lower Extremity Without and With Contrast Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to exam, other than water. You may take medications as needed with water. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRA Neck Without Contrast No prep is required for this exam. You may take medications as needed with water. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRA Neck Without and With Contrast (Carotid Arteries) Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to exam, other than water. You may take medications as needed with water. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRA Pelvis Without and With Contrast Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to exam, other than water. You may take medications as needed with water. No oral contrast is required for this exam. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRA Renal Without and With Contrast (Renal Arteries) Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to exam, other than water. You may take medications as needed with water. No oral contrast is required for this exam. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRA Spinal Canal Without and With Contrast Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to exam, other than water. You may take medications as needed with water. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. MRA Upper Extremity Without and With Contrast Nothing to eat or drink 4 hours prior to exam, other than water. You may take medications as needed with water. Arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment. Healthcare Providers Raymond Kohne, M.D. Rhett Austin, M.D. Ethel O’Neal, M.D.