Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
At Southern Orthopedic Specialists in Panama City, our on-site MRI services provide accurate, high-quality imaging to support your diagnosis and treatment. MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) offers detailed pictures of bones, joints, ligaments, and soft tissues without radiation, making it one of the most trusted tools in diagnostic imaging. These precise images help our providers evaluate injuries, plan personalized treatment, and track your recovery over time.
From check-in to completion, our team ensures a smooth, comfortable experience using advanced MRI technology designed for clarity and efficiency. Whether you’re dealing with a sports injury, chronic joint pain, back pain, or recent trauma, your MRI scan plays a vital role in creating an effective care plan.
Southern Orthopedic Specialists is proud to offer convenient MRI services in Panama City, helping patients get the answers they need quickly and continue their path to healing.
What to Expect the Day of Your MRI
Preparing for Your Scan
- Arrive about 15 minutes early to complete check-in and any remaining paperwork.
- Bring your MRI order and insurance card(s).
- You can typically eat, drink, and take your regular medications unless instructed otherwise by your doctor.
Clothing & Safety
- You will change into a clinical gown for your MRI exam.
- Please remove all metal items, including jewelry, watches, piercings, coins, keys, and electronic devices.
- Secure storage is provided for your belongings.
- If you wear dentures, removable devices, or hearing aids, you may be asked to remove them.
- Inform our team if you are pregnant or may be pregnant, as MRI safety guidelines will be reviewed with you.
If You Experience Claustrophobia
- Talk with your doctor ahead of time. A mild sedative may be prescribed to help you relax during the MRI scan.
During Your MRI Examination
During your MRI scan, you will lie still on the table while the scan takes place. Most studies take about 45 minutes to an hour to complete. As the exam progresses, the MRI system will capture images of your body from different angles. You will hear repeated tapping or drum-like sounds, which are a normal part of the process. The table may shift slightly as images are taken, but you will remain in position. An intercom allows you to speak with the technologist at any time.
MRI With Contrast
Your provider may recommend an MRI with contrast to better evaluate certain tissues or clarify a condition. The contrast is a clear, nonradioactive liquid administered through a small IV, and a doctor is present whenever it is used, though reactions are uncommon. For some joint studies, contrast may be placed directly into the joint under X-ray guidance before your scan. If you have kidney concerns, allergies, or questions about contrast, please discuss them with our team before your appointment.
Your MRI Results
After your MRI, a radiologist will review your images and create a detailed report describing any findings, such as injury, arthritis, inflammation, or tissue damage. This report is sent directly to your Southern Orthopedic Specialists provider, who will go over the results with you, explain what they mean, and discuss appropriate next steps, which may include therapy, injections, bracing, or surgery if needed. If you need copies of your images or report, our team can help.
After Your MRI Examination
Most patients can resume normal activities immediately after their MRI scan. MRI uses no radiation and does not typically cause side effects.
If you received contrast:
- Drink plenty of fluids over the next 24 hours to help your body flush the contrast.
- Contact your doctor if you experience any unusual symptoms. For severe issues, call 911.
If you took a sedative, do not drive until the medication has fully worn off.
Breastfeeding patients who receive contrast may be advised to pause breastfeeding for 24 to 36 hours and use a pump during that time.
To schedule an MRI in Panama City or to learn more about our MRI services, please call 850-785-4344.
