What is MRI?
Magnetic resonance scanning or imaging (MRI) is a revolutionary technique that
is capable of getting accurate, detailed images of almost any organ in the body,
without X-ray or the injection of a radioactive substance. The procedure can
yield detailed images in three dimensions. MRI is generally regarded as the most
significant diagnostic technique since the discovery of the X-ray in 1895
What are the diagnostic advantages of MRI?
MRI images can result in an early, accurate diagnosis,
sometimes eliminating the need for other diagnostic tests and exploratory
surgery.
What can be seen with MRI?
MRI can image bones, tissues, and organs. For example,
cancer, tendon damage and multiple sclerosis in its earliest stages can be
detected and evaluated with MRI
Can everyone be imaged on an MRI system?
Almost everyone. However, there are some
situations that might make a scan inadvisable. These include patients who have
pacemakers or metal implants such as intracranial aneurysm clips. Other metal
objects may cause problems as well. All of these situations should be discussed
with the physician and/or technologist prior to a scan.
Can a pregnant woman be scanned?
Yes, if the physician feels that the
situation warrants it. Scanning during the first trimester, however, is
generally not advised.
What does the patient do during an MRI scan?
The patient simply lies quietly on the
scanning bed.
What does an MRI exam feel like?
The test is painless and non-invasive.
There is no pressure, no probing. An MRI scan is one of the most comfortable
tests a patient can have.
Does MRI have any side effects?
There are no known biological, long-term
side effects associated with an MRI exam.
How is MRI different from X-ray?
Unlike MRI, X-ray uses ionizing
radiation and is less effective at imaging soft tissue and organs.
Does the patient have to do anything special before
the exam?
No. The patient can eat and drink
normally, and take any required medication. The patient can even drive to the
test and in most cases can return to normal activity on the same day.
How long does an MRI exam take?
The average exam takes between 30 and 60
minutes
How many MRI studies have been done?
Since being introduced into clinical
medicine in 1983, over one million MRI studies have been performed worldwide.