What Is an MRI?

What Are the Uses of MRI?

Preparation

Procedure

After the Exam   

What is an MRI?

MRI examinations have been improved to the stage where it is now very comfortable for the patients without sacrificing quality imaging. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) doesn't rely on X-rays like other imaging technologies. It uses a powerful magnet approximately 7,000-times stronger than the magnetic force of the earth. The hydrogen atoms in the patient's body react to the magnetic field, the computer reads signals from the atom formation and reconstructs data into detailed images of the body's interior.

What is it used for?

• All organs- today, MRI is used to examine almost all organs of the body. The technique is especially valuable for detailed imaging of the brain and the spinal cord. Nearly all brain disorders lead to alterations in water content, which is reflected in the MRI picture. A difference in water content of less than a percent is enough to detect a pathological change.

• Diagnosis and follow up of the disease- it is possible to see where inflammation is localized, determine the intensity, and identify tumor masses and other abnormalities in the head, spine, chest, abdomen, pelvis and extremities, as well as to examine bone and joint injuries. Frequently, this type of diagnostic information can not be acquired with any other medical procedure except surgery.

• To determine if an operation is necessary-doctors often use MRI results as guidelines for operation

• Prolonged lower back pain-it is important to be able to differentiate between muscle pain and pain caused by pressure on a nerve or the spinal cord to prevent nervous damage

Preparation:

Taking the MRI exam at our office requires no preparation. We provide gowns, changing rooms, and lockers for patients. However, when scanning the abdomen, you may be asked to not eat or drink for 4 hours prior to your test. Your doctor's office will let you know if this is necessary.

All metal objects will be asked to be removed during the exam.

You should take any medication you would normally take as directed by your doctor. Please let your technologist know what medications you are currently taking.

If you have had recent exams to diagnose this same or a similar problem at another facility, it would be helpful for the radiologist to see those exams. If available, please bring prior studies with you.

Procedure:

Before the exam, the patient may ask any questions.

The patient will be positioned, reclined, on a special cushioned table that will move him/her through the scanner during the exam. A special piece of equipment called a surface coil, which is like a radio antenna, may be placed on the part of your body to be imaged.

The technologist will then leave the room. However, at all times, the technologist can both see and hear the patient and there is a call button in the very unlikely case of an emergency.

The patient must lie as still as possible, and in some cases, the patient will be asked to hold his or her breath for no more than 10-20 seconds.

After the Exam

All normal activities may resume. See or call your doctor 3-5 days after the exam for results.