Skip to main content

MRI Specialist

David Sudderth, MD

Board Certified Neurologist located in Fort Myers, FL

For some of the highest quality spine and brain MRI scanning available, contact the office of David Sudderth, MD, in Fort Myers, Florida. Dr. Sudderth is a board-certified neurologist who uses MRI scanning to detect abnormalities of the brain and spinal cord to evaluate pain, injury, and headaches. Call the office or request an appointment using the online booking tool to learn more about MRI screenings.

MRI Q & A

What is an MRI?

An MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, is a painless, noninvasive procedure that gives doctors a clear image of your body’s internal workings. Unlike an X-ray that can only show solid objects like your bones, an MRI provides detailed images of the soft tissue and the organs in your body.

Why would I need an MRI?

You may undergo an MRI elsewhere to evaluate tumors, soft tissue injury, heart concerns, or disease of the liver and kidneys. At the office of David Sudderth, MD, MRIs evaluate anomalies of the brain and spinal cord.

Dr. Sudderth may order an MRI for your spine and brain due to chronic migraines or hemorrhage, which is bleeding into the brain or spinal cord. You may also need an MRI to assess:

  • Tumors
  • Aneurysms
  • Subdural hematoma (bleeding just under the brain covering)
  • Degenerative diseases, such as multiple sclerosis
  • Degeneration or damage to the discs of the spine

When visiting Dr. Sudderth, he explains in detail why he suggests an MRI for your particular condition.

What happens during an MRI?

The MRI machine is a large cylinder into which you slide – much like a tube. The device creates a strong magnetic field around you. This field, as well as radio waves, change the alignment of your hydrogen atoms and creates an image on the computer.

During the scan, you’ll be dressed in a hospital gown and be instructed to remain completely still. The technician communicates with you via an intercom system and will not start the procedure until you’re comfortable and ready.

You’ll wear headphones, which helps to block out the clanging of the machine as it passes your body. You feel nothing during the procedure.

An MRI doesn’t use radiation. If you have any metal in your body, such as in a pacemaker, precautions need to be taken to ensure the procedure is safe for you. If you have a metal plate, screws, or other metal implants, an MRI may not be for you.

To learn more about MRI for brain and spine evaluation, call David Sudderth, MD.