Introducing Snapshot
The Smart Alternative to X-Rays
1-2 minute scan • No radiation • Detects what x-rays miss • Comparable cost
Schedule Your SnapshotThe Problem with X-Rays
X-Rays Have Radiation
Every x-ray exposes you to ionizing radiation. While individual doses are small, repeated exposure adds up over time, especially for children and young adults.
X-Rays Miss Critical Findings
- Cannot see bone marrow edema from stress fractures
- Cannot detect bone marrow tumors or infiltration
- Cannot visualize soft tissue injuries
- Only shows displaced fractures and large bone tumors
X-Rays Are Often a Waste
Currently, doctors order x-rays for joint and bone pain, costing $200-$600. The x-ray is almost always normal except in rare cases of displaced fractures or large tumors. If symptoms persist, an MRI is needed anyway.
The Snapshot MRI Solution
Snapshot is a fast, 1-2 minute MRI screening scan that provides a better first look at bone and joint problems—without radiation and at a comparable cost to x-rays.
Ultra-Fast
Just 1-2 minutes in the scanner using rapid scout imaging sequences
No Radiation
Completely safe with no ionizing radiation exposure—perfect for children and repeated imaging
Superior Detection
Visualizes bone marrow edema and soft tissue injuries that x-rays simply cannot see
Affordable
Priced comparably to x-rays, making it accessible as a first-line screening tool
High Confidence
Strong negative predictive value—if normal, you can be confident no further imaging is needed
Smart Triage
Helps determine if a full diagnostic MRI or x-ray is needed based on findings
How Snapshot Compares
| Feature | X-Ray | Snapshot MRI | Full MRI |
|---|---|---|---|
| Scan Time | Instant | 1-2 minutes | 20-60 minutes |
| Radiation | Yes X | None OK | None OK |
| Bone Marrow Edema | Cannot see X | Visible OK | Visible OK |
| Soft Tissue Injuries | Cannot see X | Visible OK | Visible OK |
| Stress Fractures | Cannot see X | Visible OK | Visible OK |
| Bone Tumors | Only if large | Detectable OK | Detailed OK |
| Bony Detail | Excellent OK | Good | Good |
| Cost | $200-$600 | ~$200-$400 | $500-$3000+ |
| Best Use | Avulsion fragments | First-line screening | Detailed diagnosis |
When to Choose Snapshot MRI
Shoulder Pain
Screen for rotator cuff tears, impingement, and bone marrow edema
Knee Pain
Detect meniscal tears, ligament injuries, and stress reactions
Long Bone Pain
Identify stress fractures, marrow infiltration, and soft tissue swelling
Wrist Pain
Evaluate for occult fractures and ligament injuries
Ankle Pain
Screen for occult fractures, ligament tears, and bone contusions
Hip Pain
Assess for stress fractures, labral tears, and muscle injuries
Sports Injuries
Quick evaluation of acute injuries for faster treatment decisions
Pediatric Cases
Radiation-free screening for growing bones and joints
Smart Clinical Pathway
1Patient Presents with Joint or Bone Pain
Instead of ordering an x-ray, start with a Snapshot MRI for better initial screening
2Snapshot MRI Performed (1-2 minutes)
Fast scout images evaluate the area of concern
3If Snapshot is Normal
High confidence that no significant pathology is present. Patient can be reassured with no further imaging needed in most cases. This saves time, money, and provides definitive answers.
4If Snapshot Shows Abnormality
Next step depends on findings:
- If soft tissue injury or marrow edema - Order full diagnostic MRI for detailed evaluation
- If concern for avulsion fragment or need for bony detail - Order targeted x-ray
For Referring Physicians
Why Consider Snapshot MRI?
- More sensitive than x-ray for detecting early pathology
- No radiation exposure—ideal for young patients and repeated imaging
- Strong negative predictive value reduces unnecessary follow-up imaging
- Cost-effective screening tool at x-ray price point
- Fast turnaround—results in under 24 hours
- Can be ordered with full diagnostic MRI if Snapshot shows abnormality
Clinical Advantages
- Detects bone marrow edema from stress fractures, tumors, and infiltrative disorders
- Visualizes soft tissue injuries that x-ray cannot see
- Reduces the "x-ray is normal but symptoms persist" dilemma
- Helps triage patients who need full MRI vs conservative management
- Particularly valuable in pediatric and athletic populations
When Not to Use Snapshot
Snapshot is a screening tool and should not replace full diagnostic MRI when:
- Detailed anatomic evaluation is required
- High clinical suspicion warrants comprehensive imaging
- Specific pathology requires multiple planes and sequences
Simple, Transparent Pricing
Comparable to x-ray costs, but with far superior diagnostic capability and no radiation exposure
Snapshot MRI
Any single body part
- 1-2 minute scan time
- No radiation exposure
- No doctor order required
- Results in under 24 hours
- Written report by board-certified radiologist
- CD of images included
- Online access to results
Add video explanation by radiologist for $100
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly is a Snapshot MRI?
Snapshot is an abbreviated MRI scan using fast scout imaging sequences that takes only 1-2 minutes to complete. It evaluates any body part for bone marrow abnormalities and soft tissue injuries that x-rays cannot detect.
How is Snapshot different from a regular MRI?
A full diagnostic MRI takes 20-60 minutes and includes multiple sequences in different planes for detailed anatomic evaluation. Snapshot uses quick scout images to screen for abnormalities. If Snapshot is normal, you likely don't need further imaging. If abnormal, a full MRI can then be ordered for detailed assessment.
Should I get a Snapshot instead of a full MRI?
No—Snapshot should be used instead of an x-ray, not instead of a full MRI. If your doctor has already ordered a full MRI, that is more appropriate. Snapshot is designed as a better first-line screening tool to replace x-ray.
What can Snapshot detect that x-ray cannot?
Snapshot can visualize bone marrow edema from stress fractures, bone marrow tumors, marrow infiltration disorders, and all soft tissue injuries including ligament tears, tendon tears, and muscle injuries. X-rays can only show displaced fractures and large bone tumors.
Is there anything x-ray is better for?
Yes—x-rays provide excellent bony detail and are better for visualizing small avulsion fracture fragments. In some cases, if Snapshot shows an abnormality, an x-ray might still be helpful to see fine bony detail.
How much does Snapshot cost compared to x-ray?
Snapshot MRI costs $199, which is comparable to x-ray which may cost $120 to $800, depending on the facility. Given that Snapshot detects significantly more pathology and avoids radiation, it represents superior value.
Do I need a doctor's order?
No doctor's order is required at First Look MRI. You can schedule your Snapshot MRI directly and receive results quickly.
How quickly will I get results?
Results are typically provided within 24 hours. STAT results are available in under 90 minutes for an additional fee.
Is Snapshot covered by insurance?
First Look MRI operates on a self-pay basis, which keeps costs transparent and affordable. We do not bill insurance, which allows us to offer significantly lower prices than hospital-based facilities.
Is Snapshot safe for children?
Yes! Snapshot is completely safe with no radiation exposure, making it ideal for children and young adults. The short scan time also makes it easier for children to complete.