National Medical Imaging
Saskatchewan’s Premier MRI / CT Centre
About Us
National Medical Imaging is a premier imaging centre located at Market Mall in Saskatoon, Saskatchewan. We are proud to be the only 100% Indigenous owned imaging clinic in Canada. Leveraging cutting edge technology and a team of skilled professionals, we offer a range of diagnostic imaging services ensuring timely and accurate assessments for our patients. Our team is committed to providing personalized care, supportive environment, inclusivity, and excellence in imaging.
National Medical Imaging is pleased to partner with the following groups:
- Saskatchewan Health Authority
- Associated Radiologists
- University of Saskatchewan
- Saskatchewan Polytechnic
- Northern Alberta Institute of Technology (NAIT)
We are proud supporters of the following sports organizations:
- Saskatoon Blades
- Saskatchewan Rush
- Saskatchewan Rattlers
Services
PLEASE NOTE: You must have a referral from your physician and be placed on the Saskatchewan Health Authority’s (SHA) waitlist to benefit from our services. Our clinic office staff will contact you when it is time to schedule your appointment. If you are on the SHA waitlist, your test is provided under provincial health coverage.
Computed Tomography (CT)
A Computed Tomography (CT) scan is a narrow-beam of X-rays used to look inside your body. Imagine it as taking a series of detailed pictures of your insides, kind of like slicing a loaf of bread and looking at the face of each slice. These pictures help radiologists see bones, organs, and other structures. It doesn’t hurt, but you do have to lie still for a bit while the machine takes the pictures.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI is a non-invasive diagnostic test that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create detailed pictures. It produces detailed images of almost every internal structure in the body including the organs, bones, muscles, blood vessels. Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRI doesn’t use ionizing radiation.
Even though the machine makes loud noises, it’s perfectly safe and our staff will keep you comfortable with your favorite music directly to your headphones. MRI is leading the way in diagnosis and treatment monitoring by allowing medical professionals a clear look inside without the need for surgery.
Frequently Asked Questions
MRI
What is an MRI scan?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanners use radio waves and magnetic fields to create images of body tissues, organs and other structures. The machine is large, shaped like a tube and open on both ends. The area that we are scanning goes to the middle of the machine. During the procedure, you lie inside the MRI machine while the strong magnetic field within the machine readjusts the molecules of water in your body. Once the molecules are aligned, digitally generated radio waves induce the molecules to generate images in cross-sections.
An MRI is a clear way for doctors to examine your bones, tissues, and organs while checking for various pathologies.
MRI’s do not use ionizing radiation and are safe, painless and accurate.
What do I need to know before having an MRI?
After your appointment is scheduled, you will receive a screening phone call from one of our technologists prior to your scan to discuss the procedure, any surgical history that you may have had and provide you with preparation instructions.
We ask that you arrive at least 30 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time.
What does it feel like to have an MRI?
Having an MRI is a painless and non-invasive way to get clear pictures of internal organs and structures. You will lie on a long-padded table with cushions to make you feel more comfortable. Once you are ready, the area that we are scanning will move to the middle of the MRI machine. It is important that you remain still for the duration of the scan. There are no moving parts around you, and you don’t feel the magnetic field or radio waves.
During the exam, you may hear loud knocking sounds. You will be given headphones or earplugs to protect you ears from the loud noises.
A contrast material may be used for some MRI studies. If contrast is needed, it will be injected by I.V.
Can I eat or drink before an MRI?
On the day of your MRI scan, you should be able to eat, drink and take any medication as usual, unless you’re advised otherwise.
What if I am pregnant?
If you are or think you might be pregnant, please notify our clinic prior to your appointment.
Unfortunately, we cannot proceed with your MRI until we have confirmed that there is no chance of pregnancy.
What should I do before an MRI?
Please remove all piercings and jewelry prior to you MRI, however, if you have any that you are unable to remove, please notify the technologist at the time of your appointment.
If you can wear metal free clothing, you will be able to keep your own clothes on for the exam. Otherwise, we will provide you with a change of clothing.
If you wear a diabetic monitor, you will be asked to remove it at the time of your appointment.
What are some examples of metal that could interfere with an MRI scan?
There are a few implants that we are unable to scan at our clinic including pacemakers, neurostimulators, and programmable shunts. Please let our front office know prior to booking so that you can be scheduled at the appropriate site.
Can I wear deodorant or antiperspirant during an MRI?
Yes. It is completely safe to wear deodorant or antiperspirant.
Can I wear a bra during an MRI?
Depending on what part of your body will be scanned, you may be asked to change. However, if you arrive with a bra that does not have underwire, adjustable straps or clasps, you will not have to change.
What if I can't make it to my appointment?
If you need to reschedule your appointment, please call our office at the earliest opportunity. Our front office staff would be happy to help you find a better appointment time.
What if I am late for my appointment?
MRI appointments are scheduled very close together, which doesn’t leave much room for late appointments. Being late for your appointment not only affects the technologists, but all the patients booked after you. If you arrive LESS than 10 minutes BEFORE your appointment time, you may need to be rescheduled. So please be aware of your appointment time and plan to show up at the clinic at least 30 minutes early. For your convenience, we have included a map to ensure you go to the correct location. If you are running late, please contact our clinic as soon as possible to see if we can accommodate.
What comfort measures are offered during an MRI?
You will be given headphones that can play music to help block the noise from the machine. You will also be given an emergency call bell if you need to communicate with the technologist during the scan.
If you are claustrophobic, we can give you a cloth over your eyes or in some cases we can provide a mirror that allows you to see where the technologists are sitting.
In more extreme cases, your doctor may prescribe a medication to help you relax. Be sure to bring someone to drive you if you do choose to take oral sedation. The clinic cannot provide sedatives for you.
How long does an MRI take?
An MRI scan can take anywhere from 10-90 minutes depending on the area we are scanning.
Is the contrast injection safe if I am breastfeeding?
It is safe to get the contrast dye if you are breast feeding. However, you have the option to pump and discard for 24 hours following the injection.
The choice to have the contrast injection is entirely up to you.
Do I need the contrast injection?
Your doctor may request for you to have MRI contrast dye for your exam to help the radiologist better visualize certain structures in the body, however the choice to have the contrast injection is entirely up to you.
The MRI contrast is injected through an I.V by the technologist and usually feels like a cold sensation, however some people don’t feel anything.
You do not have to do any additional preparation prior to getting the MRI contrast dye.
What interferes with MRI results?
It is important to remain very still during an MRI. If you move during the scan, it can cause the image to be blurry.
What are the risks to having an MRI?
The magnetic fields create loud knocking noises which may harm hearing. This is why we provide hearing protection.
It may also cause peripheral muscle or nerve stimulation that may feel like a twitching sensation. This is harmless and completely normal during an MRI.
What is contrast dye?
Contrast dye is a liquid used during some MRI scans to make certain parts of the body easier to see. It’s like using a highlighter pen to display important details in a picture. The dye is delivered by I.V. and spreads through your blood to different parts of your body.
It contains a metal called gadolinium, which is safe for most people; however, your doctor may caution against it if there is a specific health concern.
CT
What is a CT (computed tomography) scan?
A CT (or CAT) scanner takes X-ray images from multiple angles by combining a rotating X-ray tube and a computer to produce high-resolution, cross-sectional images. This technology can image structures like bone, soft tissue and blood vessels. The machine is large and shaped like a doughnut. During the procedure, you lie on a table that moves into the CT scanner while the X-ray tube circles around you.
What do I need to know before having a CT scan?
Some tests require you to not eat or drink for four hours prior to your CT scan. In the two hours leading up to your scan, drink only clear liquids like water, juice, tea or coffee. Wear comfortable clothes and remove any metal jewelry or metallic clothing in the area what will be scanned. You may be asked to change into scrubs for the test.
For a CT scan using contrast dye you will have an I.V. started so the dye can go directly into your vein.
You want to have your procedure completed as quickly and efficiently as possible so please be sure you are aware of all your preparation requirements.
We ask that you arrive at least 15 minutes prior to your scheduled appointment time.
What if I can't make it to my appointment?
If you need to reschedule your appointment please call our office at the earliest opportunity. Our front office staff would be happy to help you find a better appointment time.
What if I am late for my appointment?
Nobody likes to show up for a procedure and be told you have to come back at another time and we really don’t want to send you home. Please be aware of your appointment time and plan to show up at the clinic at least 15 minutes early. For your convenience, we have included a map to ensure you go to the correct location.
What does it feel like to have a CT scan?
A CT scan is a painless, non-invasive test.
If a contrast dye is used for your test, you will have an I.V started. The contrast dye may make you feel warm and flushed and/or give you a metallic taste in your mouth.
Can I eat or drink before a CT scan?
Some tests require you to not eat or drink for four hours prior to your CT scan. Up to an hour prior to the exam clear liquids like water, clear juice, tea or coffee are allowed.
How long does it take to have a CT scan?
Once you are on the CT scanner, the scan itself takes 5-20 minutes. You may be at the clinic for a bit longer than that if you need to change into scrubs or have an I.V. started for contrast dye.
Do I need to go for bloodwork prior to a CT Exam?
You may be required to go for bloodwork prior to your CT examination that requires an injection of contrast to evaluate renal function.
Should I stop taking any medications prior to my CT exam?
Please take all prescribed medications as directed by your physician.
What interferes with a CT?
Although metal does interfere with surrounding anatomy, internal metal can still be scanned during a patient’s CT exam. For best imaging practices all external metal should be removed.
Can I wear a bra during an CT?
For all CT Chest scans you should avoid a bra with a metal underwire.
What should I NOT do before a CT scan?
If you required an injection of contrast prior to your CT scan, do not eat solid food for four hours prior to your exam. You may consume clear liquids up to one hour leading up to your scan.
Can I wear deodorant or antiperspirant for a CT scan?
Yes, deodorant or antiperspirant do not interfere with CT scan results.
Is there any risks involved in having a CT scan?
During a CT scan, you’re briefly exposed to a type of energy called ionizing radiation. The amount of radiation is greater than the amount from a plain X-ray because the CT scan gathers more-detailed information.
The low doses of radiation used in CT scans have not been shown to cause long-term harm. But for repeated scans, there may be a small increase in the lifetime risk of cancer. This can affect children more than adults.
CT scans have many benefits that outweigh the risks. Today’s newer scanners use less radiation than older machines and our healthcare professionals use the lowest dose of radiation to get the needed diagnostic information. Talk with your healthcare professional about the benefits and risks of a CT scan.
Directions
From Outside
Our wheelchair-accessible entrance is located on the north side of the mall facing Adelaide Street East, Unit 107. There is ample, free parking just outside the door.
From Inside The Mall
Market Mall offers free underground parking with stairs and elevators to the mall level. Our wheelchair-accessible indoor entrance is located at the back of the food court along the north wall of the building. Find our bright artwork and glass doors to a hallway that leads to our friendly staff.
Our Owners
