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What is MRI?
MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. It's a non-invasive, revolutionary process
that enables doctors to "see" right through bone to the soft tissue inside your body,
without surgery and without the radiation that is used in x-rays and CT scans.
In simple terms, this is how it works: the MRI scanner creates a strong pull that aligns
your body's protons in the same direction. Next, a radio signal is beamed into the magnetic
field, causing the protons to move out of alignment. When the beam stops, the protons
line up once again, releasing energy as they move. Different types of tissue release
slightly different signals, which are measured by a receiver coil. A computer translates
the measurements into a highly accurate image of your internal anatomy.
Conditions that may only be apparent from physical signs and symptoms can be clearly
seen using MRI. Diagnostic-quality MR images provide highly accurate information to
your physician, who is then able to prescribe the appropriate treatment.
The level of detail an MRI scan provides means there can be much greater accuracy in
the early detection and treatment of disease. Early treatment is often less expensive
and much more successful - which means MRI can save both time and money and, in
some cases, early detection can also save a life.
In addition, MRI exams use no radiation and pose no known health concerns. Best of all,
the procedure is virtually painless and may eliminate the need for diagnostic surgery. |
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