Imaging Services

Doctor looking at mri image on a computer

The imaging department at Tidewater Orthopaedics offers digital X‑ray rooms, ultrasound, and MRI. Digital X‑rays let your doctor view images on a computer screen for clear, accurate results. Ultrasound is a low‑cost test that does not require surgery. MRI provides detailed orthopedic images in a comfortable outpatient setting.

Our radiologic technologists are certified by the American Registry of Radiologic Technologists and complete continuing education each year. Our team stays up to date so we can better meet your imaging needs.

Digital X-Ray

A digital X-ray (digital radiology) is a form of X-ray imaging where digital X-ray sensors are used in place of traditional photographic film. Digital X-ray is used to diagnose conditions by taking pictures of the inside of the body.

A digital X‑ray uses special sensors instead of traditional film. It helps your doctor diagnose problems by taking pictures inside your body.

On the day of your digital X-ray:

  • Bring your doctor’s X‑ray order and your insurance card(s).
  • If you’ve had X‑rays before, bring the films.
  • If you don’t have the films, your appointment may need to be rescheduled.
Tidewater Orthopaedics MRI Center

Tidewater Orthopaedics MRI Center is home to the Philips Ingenia 1.5T MR System

Features Include:

  • Comfortable imaging with optimal positioning
  • Musculoskeletal system 1,5T scans
  • 70 CM Bore for increased access capability
  • Dedicated orthopaedic coils for faster scan times
  • ScanWise implant technology adheres to safe implant scans
  • Shorter scan times with Compresses SENSE Technology
  • Low-cost outpatient facility

MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. It is a non‑invasive, pain‑free test that creates detailed images. MRI uses a powerful magnet and radio waves to take pictures of the area being examined. These images help your doctor diagnose and treat bone, soft tissue, tendon, or ligament injuries and other problems.

How do I Prepare for the Exam?

  • Please arrive 30 minutes before your scheduled scan to complete paperwork and change clothes, if needed.
  • You may eat normally and take your medication as directed by your doctor, including pain medication.
  • Please wear loose, comfortable clothing without metal (zippers, hooks, clasps, buckles, snaps, underwire, or bra hooks).
  • Avoid wearing metal items such as jewelry, watches, or hair accessories.
  • We will provide a place for your hearing aid, removable dental work, credit cards, keys, and pocket change.
  • If you have any metal in your body (plates, screws, metal fragments, metal in your eyes, or drug infusion pumps), please tell the technologist.
  • Scans take 30–60 minutes. Anyone with you will need to wait in the main waiting room. Please do not bring children unless someone is with you to watch them.

What Should I Expect When I Arrive for the MRI Scan?

  • You will be greeted by one of the friendly front office staff who will help you fill out your paperwork. They will begin by reviewing the series of questions regarding your medical history.
  • Once the paperwork is complete, the MRI technologist will prepare you for your exam by instructing you to remove all metal from your belongings.
  • Next, the technologist will take you to the MRI scan room. The MRI machine is sufficiently large, and the body part being imaged will be in the center of the machine.
  • The technologist will leave the room, but you will be able to communicate with the technologist at all times. The technologist will view you at all times through a large window; you will never be left alone.
  • When the MRI scan begins, you will hear a tapping sound that will continue for several minutes. There will be a few pauses in the tapping during the processes.
  • Do your best to lie as still as possible since any movement will affect the pictures. Any motion may mean you will have to repeat the process. Try to relax; you can even take a nap.
  • Other than the tapping sounds, you should experience no other sensation.
  • The scan is usually completed in 30 to 45 minutes, after which the technologist will help you off the table and you may go home and resume your daily activities.
  • If you do not have a follow up appointment, the technologist will take you to our check out area and one will be made.

IMPORTANT!

Please notify the technologist if you have any of the following in your body:

  • Cardiac pacemaker
  • Defibrillator
  • Cerebral aneurysm clip
  • Cochlear ear implant
  • Metal fragment picked from your eyes
  • Metal prosthesis of joints
  • Pregnancy

If you have implants, please bring any information you have about them (including the make and model number). We need this to confirm it is safe for an MRI. You can also call ahead with this information to check if it is safe.

You can read more detailed information about x-rays here: RadiologyInfo.org

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