|
What is MRI?
MRI, Magnetic
Resonance Imaging, is a method used by physicians to look inside the
human body to obtain diagnostic information. Incorporating an
advanced technology, MRI produces images of the anatomy without the
use of radiation found in x-ray and CT scanning.
MRI uses a computer and the physical properties of magnetic
fields and radio waves to generate images of the soft tissues within the
body in any plane. These images are generated using a safe magnetic
field in combination with radio waves of a specific frequency. Different
tissue characteristics are revealed through this process and translated
into different contrast levels on the image.
This technique is commonly used as a primary diagnostic
tool. It can help provide a quick and accurate diagnosis for your
physician, which in some situations can reduce the need for exploratory surgery and other diagnostic procedures that might have associated risk.
MRI is a non-invasive procedure, and there are no known
side or after-effects. The procedure is painless; in fact, you won't see
or feel anything. A faint knocking sound will be heard, which is simply
the imaging process in operation.
Benefits of MRI
 The benefits of
magnetic resonance imaging are many, with new applications continually
being developed through ongoing research. The procedure is used for all
parts of the body and is effective in the clinical evaluation of the
following conditions:
-
Brain
disorders
-
Traumatic
injuries
-
Eye
abnormalities
-
Spine diseases
-
Tumor detection
-
Liver and other abdominal
diseases
-
Knee and shoulder injuries
-
Musculoskeletal disorders
-
Facial/Neck abnormalities
-
Infection
-
Cardiac malformations
-
Blood flow and vessel
disorders
Open MRI vs.
Traditional MRI
We are equipped with an Open MRI
system, a welcome alternative to conventional MRI exams, which can be
uncomfortable and noisy. Patient anxiety is reduced due to the open
design, and patients can lie comfortably on a cushioned table instead of
being placed in a narrow tube for an extended period of time. We feel
that our Open MRI unit is much more "patient-friendly" without
sacrificing image quality.
Advantages of Open MRI include:
-
No claustrophobic feeling
-
No confining tunnel
-
Suitable for patients of all
sizes
-
Reasonably quiet to
facilitate patient comfort
and relaxation during the
exam
Why would I
need an MRI?
MRI enables doctors
and technicians to "see" through bone and clearly defines soft-tissue
structures.
-
MRI is an
important tool in the evaluation of sports and work-related injuries
-
MRI can detect
injuries, disorders and diseases affecting the tendons, ligaments,
cartilage and bone marrow
-
MRI is
valuable in the diagnosis of multiple sclerosis, tumors, stroke,
cancer, traumatic injuries, certain spinal conditions and other
diseases
 |
