Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

Providing detailed images of the body.

The CAMIS MRI department is equipped with the GE Voyager, 1.5T, Scanner with AIR Recon DL (case). The MRI Team provides exceptional patient care and high quality imaging to each patient.

Who Needs An MRI?

CAMIS performs all MRI examinations including, Cardiac. Prostate and MR arthrography. We do not perform temporomandibular joints, perfusion studies, or breast MRI.

MRI Scans At CAMIS

High Resolution, Three-Dimensional Images

GE Voyager, 1.5T, with Air Recon DL

For Patients Up To 550 lbs

Understanding Magnetic Resonance Imaging

MRI is a type of diagnostic imaging that uses magnetic fields, not radiation, to obtain high resolution, three-dimensional images of any area of the body. It is considered to be the most effective form of imaging for musculoskeletal structures, muscles, the brain, and the spinal cord.

At CAMIS, we do not perform whole body screening MRI.

How does MRI work?

Magnetic Field Alignment: When a patient enters the MRI machine, the hydrogen atoms in the body align themselves with the powerful magnetic field created by the MRI system.

Radiofrequency Pulse: A short burst of radiofrequency waves is then applied, temporarily disrupting the alignment of these hydrogen atoms.

Energy Release: As the hydrogen atoms return to their original alignment, they release energy in the form of radiofrequency signals.

Signal Detection: Specialized detectors in the MRI machine pick up these signals, which contain information about the density and location of hydrogen atoms in the body.

Image Reconstruction: The signals are processed by a computer to construct detailed cross-sectional images, allowing healthcare professionals to visualize the soft tissues, organs, and structures with exceptional clarity.

Did you know?

The temperature inside the magnet of an MRI machine is very cold, at around -452 degrees Fahrenheit (-269 degrees Celsius). This extreme cold is necessary to keep the superconducting magnets in a state where they can generate the strong and stable magnetic fields essential for the functioning of the MRI. The actual patient and surrounding areas of the MRI suite are kept at a comfortable temperature, so the cold temperatures are isolated within the magnet itself.

FAQs

Once your exam/procedure is complete, we will send all information to your referring physician. They are responsible for any follow up or next steps.

Yes there can be side effects from injections of any kind. They range from mild to life-threatening. If you have concerns about an injection, please speak to your physician or to one of our technologists prior to your exam.

If you are severely claustrophobic then you will need to speak to your physician about having some medication to calm you prior to the exam. Our MRI staff are extremely good with patients and most people manage the MRI exam without medication.

Once your exam/procedure is complete, we will send all information to your referring physician. They are responsible for any follow up or next steps.

Yes there can be side effects from injections of any kind. They range from mild to life-threatening. If you have concerns about an injection, please speak to your physician or to one of our technologists prior to your exam.

If you are severely claustrophobic then you will need to speak to your physician about having some medication to calm you prior to the exam. Our MRI staff are extremely good with patients and most people manage the MRI exam without medication.

Once your exam/procedure is complete, we will send all information to your referring physician. They are responsible for any follow up or next steps.

Yes there can be side effects from injections of any kind. They range from mild to life-threatening. If you have concerns about an injection, please speak to your physician or to one of our technologists prior to your exam.

If you are severely claustrophobic then you will need to speak to your physician about having some medication to calm you prior to the exam. Our MRI staff are extremely good with patients and most people manage the MRI exam without medication.

Once your exam/procedure is complete, we will send all information to your referring physician. They are responsible for any follow up or next steps.

Yes there can be side effects from injections of any kind. They range from mild to life-threatening. If you have concerns about an injection, please speak to your physician or to one of our technologists prior to your exam.

If you are severely claustrophobic then you will need to speak to your physician about having some medication to calm you prior to the exam. Our MRI staff are extremely good with patients and most people manage the MRI exam without medication.

Once your exam/procedure is complete, we will send all information to your referring physician. They are responsible for any follow up or next steps.

Yes there can be side effects from injections of any kind. They range from mild to life-threatening. If you have concerns about an injection, please speak to your physician or to one of our technologists prior to your exam.

If you are severely claustrophobic then you will need to speak to your physician about having some medication to calm you prior to the exam. Our MRI staff are extremely good with patients and most people manage the MRI exam without medication.

Once your exam/procedure is complete, we will send all information to your referring physician. They are responsible for any follow up or next steps.

Yes there can be side effects from injections of any kind. They range from mild to life-threatening. If you have concerns about an injection, please speak to your physician or to one of our technologists prior to your exam.

If you are severely claustrophobic then you will need to speak to your physician about having some medication to calm you prior to the exam. Our MRI staff are extremely good with patients and most people manage the MRI exam without medication.

Once your exam/procedure is complete, we will send all information to your referring physician. They are responsible for any follow up or next steps.

Yes there can be side effects from injections of any kind. They range from mild to life-threatening. If you have concerns about an injection, please speak to your physician or to one of our technologists prior to your exam.

If you are severely claustrophobic then you will need to speak to your physician about having some medication to calm you prior to the exam. Our MRI staff are extremely good with patients and most people manage the MRI exam without medication.

Once your exam/procedure is complete, we will send all information to your referring physician. They are responsible for any follow up or next steps.

Yes there can be side effects from injections of any kind. They range from mild to life-threatening. If you have concerns about an injection, please speak to your physician or to one of our technologists prior to your exam.

If you are severely claustrophobic then you will need to speak to your physician about having some medication to calm you prior to the exam. Our MRI staff are extremely good with patients and most people manage the MRI exam without medication.

Once your exam/procedure is complete, we will send all information to your referring physician. They are responsible for any follow up or next steps.

Yes there can be side effects from injections of any kind. They range from mild to life-threatening. If you have concerns about an injection, please speak to your physician or to one of our technologists prior to your exam.

If you are severely claustrophobic then you will need to speak to your physician about having some medication to calm you prior to the exam. Our MRI staff are extremely good with patients and most people manage the MRI exam without medication.

Once your exam/procedure is complete, we will send all information to your referring physician. They are responsible for any follow up or next steps.

Yes there can be side effects from injections of any kind. They range from mild to life-threatening. If you have concerns about an injection, please speak to your physician or to one of our technologists prior to your exam.

If you are severely claustrophobic then you will need to speak to your physician about having some medication to calm you prior to the exam. Our MRI staff are extremely good with patients and most people manage the MRI exam without medication.

Once your exam/procedure is complete, we will send all information to your referring physician. They are responsible for any follow up or next steps.

Yes there can be side effects from injections of any kind. They range from mild to life-threatening. If you have concerns about an injection, please speak to your physician or to one of our technologists prior to your exam.

If you are severely claustrophobic then you will need to speak to your physician about having some medication to calm you prior to the exam. Our MRI staff are extremely good with patients and most people manage the MRI exam without medication.

Once your exam/procedure is complete, we will send all information to your referring physician. They are responsible for any follow up or next steps.

Yes there can be side effects from injections of any kind. They range from mild to life-threatening. If you have concerns about an injection, please speak to your physician or to one of our technologists prior to your exam.

If you are severely claustrophobic then you will need to speak to your physician about having some medication to calm you prior to the exam. Our MRI staff are extremely good with patients and most people manage the MRI exam without medication.

Preparing For Your Appointment

PATIENT PREPARATION

  • You can not have an MRI if you have a pacemaker or certain surgically implanted devices.
  • Our MRI booking specialist will review an MRI safety screening form with you.
  • Inform our MRI booking specialist if there is a chance of pregnancy.
  • Take all medications as necessary.
  • 4 hour fasting is required for all abdominal and pelvic studies.
  • Wear loose comfortable clothing with no metal or zippers.
  • You may be asked to change into a gown.

WHAT TO EXPECT DURING YOUR EXAM

  • The technologist will review the MRI safety screening form prior to entering the scan room.
  • Depending on the type of exam, you may need an intravenous line started for injection of contrast media.
  • After you are positioned on the table you will be given a headset to both listen to music and communicate with the technologist.
  • You will be required to hold very still during the exam.
  • There will be loud “banging” sounds as the images are obtained.
  • You may feel warm during the procedure which is completely normal.

AFTER YOUR EXAM

  • You will be free to go.

Most MRI procedures covered by Alberta Health Care

Private pay options available 

Referrals are necessary for all bookings 

Exam Duration: 15 – 45mins

My technician Rhonda and Dr. Venu are absolutely exceptional in their bedside manner. They were thoroughly invested in ensuring I was comfortable, informed, and well taken care of. I’ve had the same family doctor for 26 years and I felt just as comfortable with Dr. Venu and Rhonda today as I do with my own family physician.

Your HomeWatchTM

I was scheduled for an MRI and everything went smoothly and quickly! I was called in not even 5 minutes after my appointment time! The technician in the MRI room was really nice and friendly. Would not hesitate to book again and do the drive from Calgary.

Kathleen Boucher

I use CAMIS in Red Deer as a medical professional and as a patient. Yesterday I used it as a patient to have a pain management procedure with Dr. Mann. The fluoroscopy technicians were very friendly and professional and made the whole process quick and efficient. Dr. Mann was funny and took great pride in keeping everything sterile and as pain free as possible. Overall as a patient and medical professional I give CAMIS a big thumbs up.

Jolene

I cannot say enough good things about all the staff and doctors I interacted with the last two days. What was a very scary and stressful time was made enjoyable, easy, understandable and friendly.

Carrie McKay

I had a Barbotage treatment at the new CAMIS Notre Dame location. I have to say the staff there are excellent. The one in the treatment room with me was so kind, considerate and compassionate). I just want to compliment the lovely lady who assisted the Doctor who was also exceptionally good at trying not to cause me any more pain. Great job done by both of them.

Carole Carnahan

Impressed with my mammogram appointment today, the lineup went quickly and was efficiently managed. Pam was wonderful, these tests aren’t fun but she was kind, gentle, and has an excellent personality. The ladies at the front desk were also friendly and very knowledgeable and answered all my questions . Thank you for a great experience.

C.P.

We travel 1.5 hours for prenatal ultrasounds to come here instead of the 30mins to the place closest to us due to great experiences with the ultrasound techs in Red Deer, they have all been lovely!

Brooke Zimmer

Do You Need An MRI?

Contact our Camis Care team to ask questions and learn more about our MRI services.