3T MRI Systems

What Is 3T MRI?

MRI is a non-invasive test that uses magnetic waves to take 2- and 3D pictures of the inside of the body. An MRI scanner can look at body parts, organs, and tissues from head to toe.

3T MRI is an advanced scanner, allowing for faster scans, clearer pictures, and more precise diagnoses.

Our MRI machines use noise-reduction technology that reduces exam noise by up to 90 percent.

Doctors use MRI scans to diagnose and treat health issues such as:

Bone fractures.
Brain trauma.
Cancer.
Heart and blood vessel disease.
Joint, muscle, and bone disorders.

Find an imaging location near you

The Benefits of 3T MRI

3T MRI is an advanced MRI. These state-of-the-art scanners allow for faster, more detailed imaging, compared to standard MRI.

Strong and Fast

3T MRI, using a 3.0 Tesla magnet in the scanner:

Provides more magnetic strength than common 1.5T imaging.
Can reduce scan times.
Results in faster, more accurate scans.

Clearer, more detailed images

3T MRI provides:

Increased signal clarity and strength.
Cleaner, crisper images.

More specific diagnosis and treatment

3T MRI helps doctors:

Find lesions or other health problems on very small scales, allowing for a more precise diagnosis.
Diagnose and treat — with more clarity — conditions such as:
- Bone, joint, and muscle diseases.
- Epilepsy.
- Heart disease.
- Strokes.
- Tumors.

If you have a large or broad frame, or have claustrophobia, UPMC Imaging Services also offers wide-bore MRI scanners with extra-wide openings.

How Do I Prep for My 3T MRI?

You don't need to do anything to get ready for your 3T MRI scan.

You can take medicine and eat as you normally would unless your doctor tells you otherwise.

You may need a blood test a few days before your MRI to make sure you're healthy enough to have the test.

The day of your 3T MRI

Before your MRI starts, you'll need to complete a form that asks about your health and surgical history. Your MRI tech will make sure you understand the questions on the form.

You'll also have a chance to ask any questions you may have about the test.

Next, you'll change into a gown and remove anything metal before you enter the MRI room such as:

Makeup, as some cosmetics have small amounts of metal.
Watches or jewelry.
Belts.
Medicine patches.

What to Expect During Your 3T MRI Test

You need to stay very still during your 3T MRI scan to avoid blurriness in the images.

Depending on your condition, you may have a device to track your pulse, heart rate, and breathing.

If you're having an MRI with contrast dye, we'll:

Place a small IV needle into a vein in your hand or arm before you slide into the MRI scanner.
First, give you a saline drip to prevent clotting.
Then, inject the dye. Some may have an allergic reaction to the dye, but this is rare.

Next, the tech will leave the room and:

Give you directions — like holding your breath — through an intercom. You can talk to them as well.
Take the pictures. You'll hear loud clicks. You can ask the tech for earplugs if the clicks bother you.
Will slide you out of the scanner and remove the IV needle if you had contrast dye.

Your 3T MRI Test Results

A radiologist studies your 3T MRI scans and sends your doctor results through our state-of-the-art computer system.

You can also view your test results at your UPMC patient portal account.

Call your doctor if you have any questions about your test results.