MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is one of the most advanced diagnostic imaging tools available to evaluate the soft tissues of the human body. An MRI uses radio frequencies, magnetic fields, and computers to produce images of the body which can aid in the diagnosis of various medical conditions. The MRI scan does not use ionizing radiation to produce these images.
Edmonton’s Most Advanced GE Scanners
Insight Medical Imaging houses two different state-of-the-art magnetic resonance (MR) scanners at our Meadowlark Diagnostic Imaging clinic in West Edmonton. We are one of few unique providers in Western Canada, including hospitals and private facilities, to offer both 1.5T and 3T MRI machines. Our MRIs use the most advanced artificial intelligence deep learning software available to create exceptionally high-quality imaging in less time than ever before.
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200 Meadowlark Shopping CTR NW
Edmonton, AB T5R 5W9 -
780-489-8430 -
Monday - Friday: 7:30 AM - 4:00 PM
MRI Price List
The cost for an MRI typically ranges from $600 to $1200, but this price may vary if additional sequences or contrast is needed to provide a complete exam. While community-based services such as private MRI are not covered by Alberta Health Care, certain insurance or employer benefit plans with a health spending account may cover either a large portion or possibly the entire imaging scan cost.
For more information, please speak to our Central Booking department at 780-669-2222.
| Abdomen or Pelvis | $800 |
| Abdomen and Pelvis | $1,200 |
| Liver Triple Screen | $1,000 |
| Liver Elastography | $800 |
| Soft-Tissue Neck | $800 (3T Only) |
| Soft-Tissue Single Site (Tumor, Chest Wall, etc.) | $800 |
| Prostate (Contrast Included) | $950 (3T Only) |
| Enterography | $950 |
| Brain (Routine) | $600 |
| Brain MS | $725 |
| Brain (Seizure, IAC, Orbits, Sella) | $750 |
| Brain MRI TOF | $750 |
| Spine (Each Area) | $600 |
| Brachial Plexus | $800 |
| Lumbosacral Plexus | $800 |
| Spondyloarthropathy | $1200 |
| Shoulder | $600 |
| Knee | $600 |
| Hip | $750 |
| Hip High-Res | $800 (3T Only) |
| Elbow | $750 |
| Wrist | $750 |
| Hand | $750 |
| Finger/Thumb | $800 (3T Only) |
| Ankle | $750 |
| Foot | $750 |
| Long Bone (Clavicle, Forearm, Scapula, Humerus, Sternum, Femur, Tib-Fib) | $600 |
| SI or SC Joint | $600 |
| Arthrogram | $800 |
| TMJ | $800 (3T Only) |
| Implants (No Contrast) | $800 |
| With Contrast | $950 |
| Combined Implant and Screening (With Contrast) | $1350 |
| MRA With Contrast | $950 |
| Contrast | $150 |
| One Scanned Area | Full Price |
| Each Additional Area (For exams done on the same day) | 50% Discount* |
Receive 50% off each additional area scanned on the same day.*
Seniors or return CT patients receive 10% off exams
Prices subject to change at any time without notice.
*Discount applies to lower priced procedure. Exclusions apply.
If multiple exams and senior/ return patient, 10% off higher priced exam and 50% off additional exams.
To submit your requisition form in advance, click here!
Insight Medical Imaging Radiologists are Experts in MRI
Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI will be interpreted by a Canadian Royal College certified radiologist with expertise in medical imaging. Our radiologists have a breadth of subspecialty fellowship training from leading academic institutions from across Canada and the United States including the University of Toronto, University of Washington, and Harvard University. We support a collegial team approach to image interpretation which frequently includes consensus reporting by more than one radiologist. Insight Medical Imaging utilizes a formal peer review process to ensure accuracy and exceptional standards for imaging interpretation.
What to Expect During Your MRI Exam
Before your MRI exam, one of our MRI technologists will ask you to complete a safety questionnaire to determine whether it is safe to proceed. This will include asking about your surgical history and any injuries involving metal.
You will then be provided with a gown or scrubs to change into before your exam. A locker will also be given to secure your belongings.
Ear protection will be provided when you enter the exam room to dampen the noise produced by the MRI scanner.
Depending on the area of interest, our technologists will guide you into the best position on the MRI table. An additional piece of MRI equipment, called a “coil”, will also be placed around, over, or under the region of interest.
The MRI table will then be moved to position the body region being examined in the middle of the MRI machine. The MRI technologist will monitor you at all times during the MRI exam. You will also be provided with an emergency button so you can communicate with the technologist at any time.
We ask that you remain as still as possible during your magnetic resonance imaging exam as it will cause the images to come out blurry if you are unable to remain still. MRI exams generally, depending on the body part being examined, last between 10 to 30 minutes. In some rare cases, exam time can reach up to 60 minutes.
In some cases, an IV injection of a contrast dye is administered to aid in the diagnosis. The need for contrast is determined by the radiologist.
After the MRI exam is complete, the images are analyzed by one of our radiologists, who will send a report to your doctor immediately upon completion.
Important Notes
- You must provide your complete surgical history, and information on any injuries involving metal.
- If you are claustrophobic, please consult with your doctor to see if they would recommend taking anti-anxiety medication before your examination
- Note that MRI exams performed outside of the hospital are a private service and the cost is not reimbursed by Alberta Health Services
For more information on how to prepare for your MRI exam, please visit our exam preparation page.
Claustrophobia Risks
Both machines utilized by Insight Medical Imaging have 70cm bore diameters (the space where the patient is scanned), which are 4 inches (10cm) wider than standard industry scanners.
If you are still experiencing any anxiety about your future scan, we recommend speaking to your doctor to obtain a mild sedative before coming into your appointment. This will help you relax during the exam and ensure all imaging can be done as smoothly as possible.
At Insight, we want to ensure that all of our patients have the best possible imaging experience. That is why we also offer our patients a customized music experience during their study to further help them relax.
1.5T SIGNA Voyager
The new standard of MR is extraordinary. Our 1.5T SIGNA Voyager produces consistently sharper images with higher signal-to-noise ratio and superior uniformity thanks to total digital imaging. Additionally, patients can now experience a new standard of comfort thanks to advanced applications from the SIGNA Works platform.
3T SIGNA Architect
Designated as “the future of MR” by GE Healthcare, our 3T SIGNA Architect is a revolutionary imaging solution that combines groundbreaking advancements in MR technology with GE Healthcare’s intuitive engineering.
Our 3T scanner offers faster scan times, a more comfortable patient experience, exceptional homogeneity, and unparalleled consistency leading to increased reliability.
Discover Our Most Advanced MRI Scanner Ever
Learn why GE Healthcare’s 3T SIGNA Architect is the clear choice for your healthcare journey.
FAQ
MRIs apply powerful magnets that produce a strong magnetic field. This magnetic field forces the protons in the body to align with that field. A subsequent radiofrequency current is then pulsed through the patient and the protons are stimulated. When the radiofrequency is disabled, the protons realign with the magnetic field and the MRI sensors detect the energy released.
Based on the time it takes the protons to realign and the energy released, a magnetic resonance imaging doctor is able to decipher the various types of tissues in the body.
The noise created by an MRI machine originates from the magnetic field being cycled on and off. An MRI machine contains metal coils known as gradient coils. When these receive electrical pulses, they generate a magnetic field. The sound you hear during an MRI is the pulse of electricity moving through the gradient coils causing them to vibrate. Although these sounds can be loud, if you follow the exam preparation procedure, MRIs are harmless.
Although MRI scans are completely painless, there can be discomfort due to being required to lie still for the length of the MRI procedure, and anxiety caused by potential claustrophobia, intravenous injection of a contrast agent, or by the loud noises caused by the MRI machine. Our MRI technologist will review a safety questionnaire with you prior to the exam to ensure the MRI procedure is as safe and comfortable as possible.
Depending on the type of MRI and the part of the body that is being scanned, MRIs can take anywhere from 30 to 60 minutes.
Before your MRI exam, our MRI technologists will review a safety questionnaire with you to ensure your safety. If you have any injuries involving metal, have pacemaker or aneurysm clips, or any piercings, inform your MRI technologist. Furthermore, although you will be provided with a gown or scrubs, some clothing material, especially undergarments with sweat or odour absorbing materials, can heat up and cause burns. Please inform your MRI technologist if you have any underwear or socks containing these substances before your MRI exam.
Yes, you’ll have to book an appointment for your MRI exam at our Meadowlark Diagnostic Imaging location. Please refer to our locations page for more information or directions to our locations that provide MRI services.
There are also many ways to prepare for your MRI exam that are described on our site.
If your MRI technologist has deemed it necessary to inject a contrast agent to aid in the MRI diagnosis, it will be administered intravenously in the arm. If you are concerned about possible side effects or if contrast injections would be necessary, please speak with your technologist prior to the MRI exam.
MRI and contrast agent, if provided, does not have radiation, we only give contrast if deemed necessary for diagnostic purposes. If you wish to learn more about our protective procedures, feel free to read up on how we protect patients who need frequent medical imaging!
Before coming to your MRI exam, talk to your doctor about obtaining a mild sedative or anti-anxiety medication if you suffer from claustrophobia. If you do use a sedative, ensure you have a driver present after your MRI exam.
After your MRI exam is completed, the images will be analyzed by one of our radiologists. Upon completion of the analysis, a report of your MRI results will be sent to your doctor as soon as possible.
Planning your next appointment? Learn more about exam preparation and get directions to our MRI clinic.
MRI Exams:
Abdominal MRI
Spine MRI
Breast MRI
Brain MRI
Joint & Knee MRI
Liver Elastography
Pelvis MRI
Prostate MRI
MR Angiography (MRA)
MR Arthrogram Imaging