Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of soft tissues, organs, and structures throughout the body without exposing patients to radiation. LMH Health offers a range of MRI procedures, including angiography, breast imaging, and abdominal scans, to support diagnosis of many conditions.
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The LMH Health MRI service offers a variety of procedures such as MRA (angiography), MRCP (gallbladder), diffusion imaging for acute strokes and multi planar 3D imaging. Additionally, the MRI allows abdominal, pelvis and breast imaging. It is designed for visualization and diagnosis of cancer, diabetes, stroke, heart and, vascular disorders.
Unlike X-rays, which rarely pass through bony structures, MRI scanners provide clear images of the spine and display soft-tissue structures of the body such as muscles and blood vessels.
LMH Health offers MRI services at our Main and West Campuses. Both campuses have scanners that offer a larger bore suitable for bigger and claustrophobic patients. Scheduling hours are 6:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the West Campus and 6:30 a.m. to 7 p.m. at the Main Campus, Monday through Friday.
What to Expect
While most types of scanners use radiation technology to capture images, the MRI sends radio waves and then evaluates the response from the various tissues. After the responses are gathered, a computer in the MRI scanner processes them into pictures. In some cases, patients are injected with a substance known as a contrast agent, which changes the blood’s magnetic property, slows down its reaction and makes it appear brighter on the images. The contrast is given only to patients who are having certain procedures.
The only difference between MRA and MRI is that MRA is done to visualize vessels and MRI to visualize all other tissue. The exams are still performed with the same machine and there is no difference in the procedures. All patients are asked to check in 30 minutes prior to their exam. An MRI study generally takes 15 to 45 minutes although only a fraction of that time is needed for recording pictures.
Depending on the type of study being performed, all patients are given the option of music or hearing protection. Patients also have the choice of being escorted to the MRI room. The presence of children is not recommended due to noise levels.
After an MRI, you will receive two bills. The hospital will bill you for the procedure as will the radiologist who reads the exam. The report from the radiologist will be sent to your physician. If you have questions, call the Imaging team at 785-505-6194.
Meet Our Care Team
Douglas Hughes, MD
Radiology
James Mandigo, MD
Radiology
Dr. James Mandigo is a radiologist with Radiologic Professional Services. He earned a bachelor’s degree from Baylor University and went on to earn his medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine. He completed his residency in diagnostic radiology at the University of Texas Science Center in San Antonio and a fellowship in nuclear radiology at the University of Utah Health Sciences Center. Dr. Mandigo is board certified in diagnostic radiology and has been a member of the LMH Health Medical Staff for 20 years.
John J Waddell, MD
Radiology
John J. Waddell, MD, earned his medical degree from the University of Missouri School of Medicine. He was an internal medicine intern at the University of Missouri Hospitals and Clinics in Columbia, and completed his residency in diagnostic radiology there. Dr. Waddell is board certified by the American Board of Radiology and is professionally affiliated with the American College of Radiology, the American Roentgen Ray Society and the Society of Breast Imaging.
Patrick M. O'Toole, MD
Radiology
Richard G Kuckelman, MD
Radiology
Robert B. Knight, MD
Radiology
Scott E. Patrick, MD
Radiology
Thomas Grillot, MD
Radiology
Thomas Grillot, MD, received his undergraduate degree from Kansas State University and earned his medical degree from the University of Kansas School of Medicine. He was an internal medicine intern at Billings Clinic in Billings, Montana, and completed a residency in radiology at Wesley Medical Center in Wichita. Dr. Grillot is board certified in radiology and is an active member of the American College of Radiology, Radiological Society of North America and American Roentgen Ray Society.