Magnetic Resonance Imaging In The Diagnostic Field By, Kara Laliberte

History of MRI Created by three medical doctors. First scan in First machine called “Indomitable.” Crude Images.

The Basics of an MRI Scan A magnetic resonance imaging scan is a diagnostic procedure that allows radiographers to produce images of organs and other internal body parts. It is used to diagnose medical problems within the human body.

All About Magnets The images produced by MRI are created by magnets. There are three types of magnets used in MRI systems. These are: resistive magnets, permanent magnets, and superconducting magnets.

MRI Images MRI images are used to diagnose diseases, infections, view injuries to muscles and ligaments, assess tumors and cysts, and diagnose stroke. Radiologists can easily see abnormalities within tissue with an MRI. The images for reading are created by altering the local magnetic field in the tissue of the body. Normal and abnormal tissue gives off different signals to the computer.

Advantages and Disadvantages of MRI There are numerous advantages to an MRI scan rather than traditional x-rays. Since an MRI does not use ionizing radiation, it is safer than traditional x-rays and has a lower occurrence of side effects. Just like anything, there are certain drawbacks to MRI. The machines are very expensive to purchase and therefore having a scan can cost a bundle. Many people cannot afford to even have scans performed, even if they truly need them. Patients must also hold very, very still during a scan. Even a slight movement will cause the entire scan to be disrupted, and the technician will have to start it over again.