Open MRI of Louisiana

Providing quality patient care is not only a priority at Houma Orthopedic Clinic, it is part of our mission as an orthopedic group. It begins with open and honest communication between you and your physician. If a procedure is specified, you will understand why and what you can expect throughout your treatment. All diagnostic imaging performed at Open MRI allows the highest quality MRI’s to be completed in a familiar and welcoming environment.

In our continuing effort to better serve our patients, Houma Orthopedic Clinic offers state-of-the-art Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) as well as Digital X-Rays. We offer a wide, patient friendly, full body scanner with pleasant lighting and ventilation to reduce anxiety creating a calm and relaxing MRI experience.

Houma Orthopedic Clinic is fully equipped with x-ray rooms to provide a full spectrum of radiography services. Our equipment is routinely inspected by a state physicist to be certain that all safety standards are met or exceeded. We employ only licensed, registered radiologic technologists to ensure quality examinations.

What is Magnetic Resonance Imaging?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging or MRI is a revolutionary new diagnostic procedure. It is almost always performed on an outpatient basis, so it is convenient for the patient. MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is an imaging method used to view internal body structures using combinations of radio waves and magnetic fields. An MRI is the safest and most comprehensive way to diagnose certain conditions within the body.

An MRI requires no radiation; it is a proven safe procedure. The level of accuracy it affords is outstanding. MRI Scans are so precise, they can many times differentiate between healthy and unhealthy tissue before symptoms occur. MRI has been used successfully in diagnosing abnormalities in all parts of the body. This makes it one of the most versatile diagnostic tools available today.

Why would my physician recommend it?

There are many reasons why your physician might recommend an MRI Scan. First, it requires no radiation; it is a proven safe procedure. Second, the level of accuracy it affords is outstanding. MRI Scans are so precise, they can many times differentiate between healthy and unhealthy tissue before symptoms occur.

What are the advantages of MRI over existing technologies?

Without the use of radiation, such as X-rays and CAT scans, your physician can obtain a clear picture of areas in your body to identify adverse conditions and help determine the best method of treatment. MRI uses magnets, radio waves, and computer photographic techniques, none of which cause any pain to the patient. Until now, MRI has been a stressful, uncomfortable procedure. Patients were placed in tight and confined surroundings, and the noise level of the magnets has been discomforting. Now, you can be more comfortable. Short bore MRI is equipped with Pianissimo, a technology by Toshiba which reduces noise by as much as 90% when compared to traditional MRI.

Are there any risks about MRI that I should be aware of?

While the procedure presents far less risk than traditional MRIs, there are some patients who should be particularly aware of any MRI procedure:

Patients with a Cardiac Pacemaker
Patients with an Aneurysm Clip
Patients with an Inner Ear Implant
Patients with Metal Fragments in the Eye
Patients who are Pregnant

What should I expect before my MRI?

One of our technologists will meet with you to answer any questions. You will be shown to a private dressing room where you will change into a gown or scrubs for the procedure. All jewelry must be removed prior to the scan; therefore, it is advisable to leave all valuables at home. Next, you will be asked a few questions about your medical history and the test will be explained to you.

How does the MRI Scanner work?

Basically, a Magnetic Resonance Scanner is a huge magnet that uses radio waves to develop internal images of your body and organs. The signals are analyzed by special computers to produce the images that the radiologists will interpret in order to make a diagnosis.

What is the actual MRI like?

First of all, the scan is totally painless. You will feel nothing during the test, except for hearing a thumping sound similar to a drum roll. Earplugs are available if needed. During the scan, you will be lying on a special “table” that slides into a large white cylinder which fits inside the magnet. You will be asked to stay as still as possible during the test so that the pictures are as clear and precise as possible. Generally, the scan takes 20 to 30 minutes although this depends upon the area to be scanned. Following your exam, a radiologist will review and interpret your images within 24 to 48 hours. The interpretation will be forwarded to your physician who will then develop a treatment plan that is right for you.

How should I prepare for my procedure?

Please arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your MRI or injection appointment.
Examinations may take 15-45 minutes.
Eat and drink normally.
Take your regular medication unless your doctor instructs otherwise.
It may be easier to relax if you do not drink too much liquid immediately before the scan.
Wear comfortable clothes without metal fasteners. You will be provided with a set of scrubs or an examining gown.
Notify the staff if you have metal in your body (i.e. Welding or cutting shavings, or shrapnel).
Notify the staff as early as possible if you have any health aids or appliances (i.e. pacemaker, hearing aid, dental bridges, clips, implants or surgical staples, or if you are pregnant.
We suggest you place your valuables, wallet and handbags in a secure place prior to entering our facility. However, we do have lockers.
It is not a good idea to wear eye shadow or mascara

*MRI creates a strong magnetic field. So, jewelry, hairpins, eyeglasses, watches and other personal effects that contain metal should not be brought into the MRI area. Credit cards, bank debit cards, and other forms of identification that have magnetic strips may have their information erased if they are brought into the MRI area. Leave these at home, or keep them outside of the MRI area.

If you are unable to keep your MRI appointment, please call (985) 857-9790.

How does Open MRI prepare for my procedure?

We will schedule your MRI and follow-up appointment prior to you leaving our office.
We will contact your insurance company to obtain authorization, if necessary.
If we are unable to authorize your MRI, you will be contacted to reschedule your appointment.
Your images will be interpreted by Dr. Stephen Pomeranz.
Your images will be sent electronically to your Houma Orthopedic Clinic physician.

Where do I check-in for Open MRI?

You will check-in at Open MRI of Louisiana located at 1001 School Street, Suite B, Houma LA 70360. Once you have checked in, you will be directed to Open MRI. Please arrive 30 minutes prior to your appointment.

Any patient portion of payment will be due at the time of service. If you cannot pay, your appointment will be cancelled. Open MRI requires a 7 day advanced notice in request of images.

Who will interpret my MRI?

Your MRI will be interpreted by Dr. Stephen Pomeranz, noted the world over as one of the leading specialists in the field of MRI and the interpretation of MRI diagnostic results. Dr. Pomeranz is a diagnostic and technical consultant to many other medical and imaging institutions as well as the National Basketball Association and the National Football League. His consulting abilities are considered to be among the most precise and finest available anywhere. He is also a respected author, lecturer and editor.

Dr. Pomeranz and his esteemed staff will read and interpret every MRI at Open MRI of Louisiana. Their response time, in most cases, will be within 24 hours or the next business day following the procedure. In more serious cases, or when there is a life-threatening condition, the response will be immediate.

What is an X-Ray?

Radiography is a valuable tool in the diagnosis and treatment of orthopedic problems and injuries.

Why would my doctor recommend it?

X-rays are done to:

Evaluate the cause of pain
Determine whether your bone is fractured or the joint dislocated
Determine whether fluid has built up in the joint
Evaluate changes in your bones caused by conditions such as an infection, arthritis, abnormal bone growths, or other bone disease
Determine whether your bones are positioned properly after treating a fracture or dislocation

We also do x-rays for other physicians, outside the specialty of orthopedics. In an effort to reduce waiting time, your doctor may request that you be x-rayed prior to your exam, especially with new problems or injuries.

Pregnancy and the risk of radiation exposure to your baby (fetus) must be considered, so it is important that you notify the doctor or technologist if there is a chance that you are pregnant, especially in the early stages.

Our quality care continues with our modern diagnostic capabilities. Our state-of-the-art equipment includes Direct Radiography (DR). DR allows us to capture hospital-quality digital images (digital x-rays) on a computer screen. DR is a well-proven technology. It provides a digital image acquisition process that produces images superior to conventional x-ray on film. X-ray digital images are read, interpreted, and stored on a computer or PACS. This direct radiography system provides the opportunity for more rapid inspection, immediate feedback, and systems can be networked for easy distribution of images.