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by Eric Dontigney; Updated September 30, 2017
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Magnetic resonance imaging, referred to as MRI, is a type of medical scan used to produce images of the body similar to an x-ray or computerized tomography (CT) scan but without using radiation, according to the National Institutes of Health, an agency of the United States Department of Health and Human Services.
There are two major types of MRI scan, contrast and non-contrast. The primary difference is that contrast MRIs require that a contrast dye (gadolinium-based) be given intravenously prior to the scan.
Non-contrast Advantages
Non-contrast MRIs provide a viable body imaging option for pregnant or kidney-compromised patients, as gadolinium is not recommended for either group. Fortherecordmag.com reports that non-contrast MRIs can also provide equivalent or superior images to contrast MRIs for blood vessel activity.
Contrast Benefits
Contrast MRIs are considered superior for specific problems, such as brain tumors or lesions and is the favored choice following back surgery, since the dye provides greater image clarity for these areas.
Scan Duration
One argument against non-contrast MRIs has been that they take longer. However, fortherecordmag.com notes, technological advances paired with the omission of a pre-scan injection and waiting period can make the overall time invested approximately the same.
As of 2008, according to fortherecordmag.com, Toshiba and GE were both involved with advancing non-contrast MRI, by developing new equipment, software and techniques.
National Institutes of Health: MRI
Fortherecordmag.com: Adjusting the Contrast for MRI
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