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Did you know that a magnet could help doctors diagnose problems within your body? Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) gives clear, detailed pictures of a number of body structures including:
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Soft tissues near bones
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The cardiovascular system including the heart, aorta, coronary arteries and blood vessels
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Organs in your chest and abdomen including the liver, lungs, kidneys, spleen and pancreas
How MRI Works
MRI uses radiofrequency waves and a strong magnetic field. Inside the MRI machine is a large, powerful magnet that when activated creates a magnetic field. Once the magnetic field is generated, the hydrogen atoms within the body line in the direction of the magnetic field. Next radio frequency waves that work with hydrogen protons are pulsed toward the part of the body being examined. The pulses cause the protons to absorb the energy and start to spin. When the pulses are stopped, the protons go back to the way they were and release the stored energy. This gives off a signal that the machine picks up and sends to a computer, generating an image that doctors can use.
Uses of MRI
MRI allows doctors to look deep inside the body without surgery. This technology has many uses including:
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diagnosing tumors,
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visualizing orthopedic injuries including torn ligaments and tendon damage,
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evaluating masses in soft tissue,
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diagnosing cardiovascular disease, and
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evaluating spinal and joint problems.
Special dyes or contrast agents may be used to improve the quality of the images. The contrast material is generally given through an intravenous solution during the procedure.
MRI isn’t for everyone. MRI should not be used during the first 12 weeks of pregnancy. Patients who have had cardiac surgery or who have metal implants such as implanted insulin pumps, artificial joints, surgical clips, metal stents and cardiac valve replacements may not be able to have an MRI because of the strong magnet used. In addition, anyone who has had metal pieces in the eye or eye socket should avoid an MRI.
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