Welcome to Cheyenne Radiology and MRI, the only complete imaging center in Cheyenne. We provide you with the highest quality diagnostic services on state of the art MRI and CT scanners in a pleasant and comfortable environment. Our staff is experienced and registered in MRI and CT. All your questions will be answered and you will be put at ease for your examination.
    

MRI

• Patients who may be claustrophobic should notify Cheyenne Radiology and MRI prior to your appointment for special instructions.
• You should inform the technologist if you:
  • have aneurysm clips
  • have artificial heart valves or stents
  • have welded or ground metal
  • are pregnant
  • have had any previous surgery (brain, eye, ear)

• It is highly recommended that you are with your child in the MRI room during their examination.
• A child under five will require oral sedation, administered at the MRI department. Plan to arrive one hour before your scheduled examination.
• The child should be kept up late the night prior to the exam and awakened early the next morning. If possible, do not let your child nap before their examination.
• Do not give your child any food or drink at least six hours prior to their examination.
• If your child has a favorite blanket or stuffed toy, please bring it with you.

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• You will be asked to change into a medical gown and pants. A locker is provided in each dressing room for your valuables and clothing.
• In the MRI room, you will be asked to lie on a padded table and told what is expected of you during your examination. You will be made as comfortable as possible prior to going into the unit. It is important to lie still and relax.
• You will be given earplugs prior to going into the MRI unit. The table will slide into the MRI unit for your scan.
• The MRI examination averages between fifteen to twenty-five minutes and is broken up into sequences.
• The technologist will talk to you before and after each sequence. You are in audio and visual contact at all times.
• Feel free to ask questions at any time. - Some examinations require the use of a contrast-enhancing agent that is used to help visualize different organs. It does not contain iodine and no special preparation is required.
• You may have a friend or relative accompany you into the examination room.

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• There is no special diet or preparation necessary.

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Computed Tomography

What is CT ?

Computerized Axial Tomography - also known as CAT or CT, scans images your body in slices showing the structures in that area. A computer is used to provide clear, sharp images

CT is used to detect and define the characterization of various disease processes of the body. Our programs are set up to ensure the best diagnostic images are produced with minimum radiation exposure to the patient. CT is used to assist in biopsies (removal of tissuefor laboratory testing) and abscess drainages. It provides an image allowing pathological processes to be easily localized. Needle placements can also be accomplished with as accurate measurements as possible. The exam is done on an outpatient basis, eliminating most surgical expenses and hospital stays.

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How does CT work?

As CT x-rays pass through the designated area of your body from different directions, they are measured by special detectors that convert them into electrical signals. A computer converts the signals into images through a mathematical procedure called 'image reconstruction' and the images are rebuilt. These images are viewed on monitors or printed on a sheet of film.

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CT examinations for children

• Sedation is usually not required and your child will be made as comfortable as possible.
• Parents are encouraged to remain in the CT room during the exam.
• The goal of the technologist is for your child to have the best examination with the minimum of discomfort and radiation exposure. Your child will be instructed in what he/she should do and what's going to happen during the examination.
• Children are encouraged to bring their favorite blanket or cuddly toy with them for reassurance.

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• You may be asked to change into a medical gown.
• You will be asked to lie on a padded table and hold still.
• You may be given breathing instructions, if necessary.
• Always feel free to ask questions.
• If contrast (dye) is to used in your exam, you will be told why it is necessary use and the possible effects it may have on you. Contrast is generally used to better visualize different structures in your body. There may be a possibility of a reaction to the contrast - a test dose is given to check for a reaction prior to the dose required for the exam.
• Preventative measures are taken to guard against reactions and complications.
• Lead shielding is placed under and over the patient's body regions not being examined.

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Preparation for your examination - General

• Medical insurance policies vary and some require 'pre-authorization'; you should confirm your coverage before your appointment.
• Bring your insurance identification to assist in the proper filing and billing of your examination.
• Please arrive at least fifteen minutes prior to your appointment to fill out a form with your medical history.
• Please inform the technologist if you have an appointment following your examination and if your doctor wants you to bring the films with you.

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Preparation for your CT examination

• Depending on your CT examination, you may be asked to drink only clear liquids and abstain from solid foods the night before the examination.
• You may need to have a lab test done prior to the day of your exam.
• Please inform the technologist if:
  • You may be pregnant
  • If you've ever had a reaction to a contrast agent
  • If you are allergic to food or medications

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After your examination

• You may resume regular and normal activity unless you were sedated, in which you will be given special instructions.
• The images from your exam will be interpreted by a Board Certified Radiologist experienced in MRI and CT.
• Examination reports will be faxed to your doctor within 48 hours of your examination.