- How do I schedule my MRI?
The first step to scheduling a MRI is contacting your medical provider and asking for a MRI referral. We must have a referral from either a doctor, chiropractor, physician assistant or nurse practitioner to legally preform your scan. After your MRI is approved by your provider, their office will fax the referral to our team and your appointment can be scheduled the very same day.
- What happens if I need to reschedule?
If you are unable to arrive at your scheduled appointment time, please call to discus options to reschedule.
- How to prepare on the day of the MRI
On the day of your scheduled appointment, please eat normally and take all regular medications unless otherwise directed by your physician. Dress in comfortable, metal-free clothing (i.e., shorts, sweatpants, wire-free bra). When you arrive, you will review your registration information and provide your photo ID and insurance card as required. All personal belongings can be left in a secure, personal locker prior to your scan.
- What can I expect during my MRI?
The technician will assist you onto the scanning table. You will lie on your back, relaxed, with your head on a pillow and the patient table will then slide very smoothly into position. You will have to stay still during the exam so the technologist can get an accurate image. You can expect the exam to last 30 minutes. After the exam, the technician will lead you back to the dressing room where you can retrieve your personal belongings. Results of the scan are provided to your doctor within 24 hours.
- What if I’m claustrophobic?
If you need to have an MRI, but you’re claustrophobic or you have trouble lying still, ask your provider about options for oral medication for one-time use to help you relax during the MRI exam. Other options for your comfort are eye covers or special glasses that help you see outside the MRI.
- What about MRI sedation for children?
Due to the nature of the study and the noise and length of the exam, some children may be worried about having an MRI. For this reason, children can be sedated prior to being scanned as directed by their pediatrician.
- What is a pre-authorization? How do you know if I need one?
Some private insurances require their policyholders to get a pre-authorization code prior to his/her MRI. It is all dependent on your personal plan with your insurance. We can check if one is needed; but the pre-authorization code must be acquired from your referring physician’s office prior to your scan. Your physician’s office checks to see if you are required to have one. No action is necessary on your part.
Avalon Imaging
Innovation
Embrace change, encourage invention and continually remain at the forefront of advances in MRI technologies for the good of our patients
Compassion
Demonstrate caring and sensitivity for the diverse backgrounds of our patients and colleagues and generosity in our communities
Integrity
Adhere to high ethical and professional standards, demonstrating commitment to our responsibilities with trust, honesty and respect for all
About Avalon Imaging
Advanced Imaging Services in West Texas and the DFW Area
Avalon Imaging is the premier provider of advanced imaging services in West Texas and the Dallas Fort Worth area. Utilizing hospital-grade x-ray and 1.5T high-field MRI equipment, our team ensures that every patient receives quality, convenient service every visit.
At Avalon Imaging, we are committed to providing the highest level of quality in Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Diffusor Tensor Imaging (DTI) and X-Ray diagnostic imaging and services. We understand how busy life can be, which is why we offer same-day and next-day appointment—guaranteed.
Getting you back to what you love is our priority. Radiologist reports are sent to your referring physician within 24 hours or less to prevent delays in your road to recovery.
Flexible Payment Options
- Private Pay
- Major Medical Insurance
- Workers’ Compensation
- Premises Lability (e.g., slip and fall)
- Personal Injury (e.g., car accidents, truck accidents, etc.)
Services
MRI
DTI
X-Ray
Fluoroscopy
MRI
What is an MRI?
MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI). MRI is a test that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to make pictures of organs and structures inside the body. In many cases, MRI gives us different information about structures in the body than can be seen with an X-ray, ultrasound or computed tomography (CT) scan. MRI also may show problems that cannot be seen with other imaging methods.
DTI
What is Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI)?
Coming Soon
Diffusion Tensor Imaging (DTI) is a state-of-the-art diagnostic tool that uses advanced MRI technology to detect traumatic brain injury not visible on conventional MRI, CT or other imaging modalities. DTI identifies diffuse axonal injury (DAI), which occurs primarily in the white matter tracts of the brain. Real brain injury occurs after mild trauma and is accompanied by brain dysfunction. DTI allows for the visualization of the brain’s pathologic features while providing objective evidence of cognitive decline. TI is a type of MRI sequencing which is based in part on fluid dynamics. Water will behave the same in an ocean, river, stream or in the brain as long as gravity is present. The body is about 60% water and the brain is about 80% water. With DTI, we pulse the brain from a variety of angles. (There is nothing invasive – no dyes, no injections necessary.) As we pulse the brain from each of 30 different angles, the magnetic pulse causes the fluid in the brain to move in the opposite direction. As it moves, it travels along the tiny, microscopic white matter tracts of the brain. These tracts are like tiny canals and tubes, which are actually the brain’s “wires.” Once we have captured this motion from our 30 different angles, Where there are no tracts, we can see the missing tracts in the brain.
X-Ray
What is an X-Ray?
X-rays use invisible electromagnetic energy beams to produce images of internal tissues, bones, and organs on film or digital media. Standard X-rays are performed for many reasons, including diagnosing tumors or bone injuries. X-rays are made by using external radiation to produce images of the body, its organs, and other internal structures for diagnostic purposes. X-rays pass through body structures onto specially-treated plates (similar to camera film) or digital media and a “negative” type picture is made (the more solid a structure is, the whiter it appears on the film).
Fluoroscopy
What is Fluoroscopy?
Fluoroscopy is a type of medical imaging that uses x-rays to create real-time images of the body. This technology is used to diagnose and treat a variety of conditions, including musculoskeletal disorders, digestive tract issues, and cardiovascular diseases. During fluoroscopy, radiation exposure is minimized by using protective shielding and reducing the time of the procedure. By using this imaging technique, doctors can assess a patient’s condition quickly and accurately without having to perform invasive procedures.
The guiding principle of radiation safety is “ALARA”. ALARA stands for “as low as reasonably achievable”. ALARA means avoiding exposure to radiation that does not have a direct benefit to you, even if the dose is small.
FAQs
Locations
West Texas Office
Dallas-Fort Worth Area Office
Phone: 469-577-1551
Fax: 469-405-3255
Email: dfwscheduling@avalonimaging.com
Get In Touch With Us
For general questions, please send us a message and we’ll get right back to you. You can also call us directly to speak with a member of our service team or insurance expert.
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