Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) and Functional MRIs Sarah Zion and Ondine Legris

What is an MRI? An MRI (or magnetic resonance imaging) is a type of radiological scan that uses a combination of radio waves, magnetism and a computer to produce images of body structures and abnormalities. The MRI consists of a tube surround by a large circular magnet, which creates a powerful magnetic field that aligns the protons of hydrogen atoms to produce radio waves. The resulting signals are picked up by the computer, which translates it into a detailed image.

How does it work again? I was kind of lost by the time you hit “protons” and “hydrogen atoms” Here you go:

What is an MRI used for, exactly? MRIs are great at detecting signs of disease, brain trauma, tumors, inflammation and stroke. MRIs can be used to scan almost every section of the body, including the chest, brain, spine, heart, reproductive organs, musculoskeletal system and blood vessels (angiography). The resulting image makes it easy for the radiologist to determine what is ailing the patient, and whether there are any abnormalities in the scanned area.

Functional MRIs Functional MRI is a new kind of MRIs that uses MR imaging to measure metabolic changes that take part in active parts of the brain. scan of OCD activity fMRI is quickly becoming the ideal brain and psychological diagnostic test because it is so versatile. It can detail the anatomy of the brain, map out functions of the brain involving speech and other activities, assess the effects of stroke, Alzheimer's, dementia and trauma, monitor tumor growth, and provide possible paths for surgery. It provides a video to the static picture of an MRI

Interesting Studies Using fMRIs This study was used to determine that putting someone in a virtual reality setting greatly reduced pain; providing evidence for using VR as a valid therapy treatment for patients such as burn victims. Researchers at the Tel Aviv University have also been using fMRIs to monitor the brains of Israeli soldiers before and after they are drafted. They are trying to detect the possibility of developing post-traumatic stress disorder in hope to catch symptoms of depression that can lead to suicide. By looking at the part of the brain called the amygdala, they have been able to predict how stress symptoms will manifest.

The Dangers of an MRI