MRI is a noninvasive technique for visualizing many different body tissues. Unlike x-rays, MRI does not use any radiation. Instead, it uses radio waves, a large magnet, and a computer to create images.As with a CT scan, which does use x-rays, each MRI picture shows a different “slice,” or cross-section, of the area being viewed. Because these slices usually are spaced about a quarter-inch apart, your doctor can get a detailed representation of a particular area.
Most MRI machines are large, tube-shaped magnets. When you lie inside an MRI machine, the magnetic field temporarily aligns all the water molecules in your body. Radio waves cause these aligned particles to produce very faint signals, which are used to create cross-sectional MRI images — like slices in a loaf of bread.
The MRI machine can combine these slices to produce 3-D images that may be viewed from many different angles.
MRI of the brain and spinal cord:
MRI is the most sensitive imaging test of the brain and spinal cord. It’s often performed to help diagnose:
*Pituitary gland diseases
*Spinal cord injuries
MRI of the heart and blood vessels:
An MRI that focuses on the heart or blood vessels can assess:
*The size and thickness of walls in the heart’s chambers
*The extent of damage caused by heart attack or heart disease
*The buildup of plaques and blockages in the blood vessels
*Structural problems in the aorta, such as aneurysms or dissections
*MRI of other internal organs
An MRI may be used to check for tumors or other abnormalities of the:
MRI of bones and joints
MRI may be used to help evaluate:
*Joint disorders, such as arthritis
*Joint abnormalities caused by traumatic or repetitive injuries
*Disk abnormalities in the spine
MRI of the breasts
MRI may be used in addition to mammography to detect breast cancer, particularly in women who have dense breast tissue or who may be at high risk of the disease.
For most individuals, there are no known harmful effects from exposure to the magnetic field or radio waves used in making MRI images. Allergic reactions to the dye are very rare.
Preparation for the test:-
Before an MRI exam, eat normally and continue to take your usual medications, unless otherwise instructed. You will be asked to change into a gown and to remove:
The presence of metal in your body may be a safety hazard or affect a portion of the MRI image. Tell the technologist if you have any metal or electronic devices in your body, such as:
*Metallic joint prostheses
*Artificial heart valves
*An implantable heart defibrillator
*Metal clips to prevent aneurysms from leaking
*A bullet, shrapnel or any other type of metal fragment
Also tell the technologist if you think you’re pregnant, because the effects of magnetic fields on fetuses aren’t well understood. Your doctor may recommend choosing an alternative exam or postponing the MRI.
It’s also important to discuss any kidney or liver problems with your physician and the technologist, because problems with these organs may impose limitations on the use of injected contrast agents during your scan
If you know you have an implant, or are concerned, discuss the issue with your doctor, as other options may exist. (Some pacemakers, for example, can be reprogrammed prior to an MRI so that they are not disrupted.)
An IV is inserted into a vein if the particular scan you’re having requires a dye to make areas of inflammation or abnormality easier to detect. This dye is called gadolinium, and is different from the contrast dye used for x-rays or CT scans. Before undergoing the scan, remove metal objects such as belt buckles or watches, which could dislodge in the presence of the magnet and hurt you.
What happens when the test is performed?
During the test:
The MRI machine looks like a tunnel that has both ends open. You lie down on a movable table that slides into the opening of the tunnel. A technologist monitors you from another room. You can talk with him or her by microphone.
The MRI machine creates a strong magnetic field around you, and radio waves are directed at your body. The procedure is painless. 