Medical imaging has come a long way from the “primitive” x-ray machines. In the past, doctors could only gather a black-and-white contrasted image of your bones and empty space. Soon, better computer technology enabled radiologists to peer inside the body like never before using MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) technology. Now, scan imaging picks up the status of your tissues, organs, blood vessels and internal structures. While every malady cannot be detected by such tests, they are the best indicator of tumors, internal bleeding and bone injuries we have.
Most people are eligible to receive MRI scans. The procedure has no proven risks for the average American, although pregnant women would be better suited to visit a sonographer for an ultrasound, due to the sensitivity of developing fetuses and the lack of research. Patients who have kidney or liver problems may not be able to have the MRI scan because the injected contrast agents will upset their systems. Additionally, individuals who have metal or electronic devices implanted may have interferences from these items that prevent a clear reading; these devices include pacemakers, metal clips, cochlear implants, bullet shrapnel fragments, implantable heart defibrillators and artificial heart valves.
The MRI machine itself looks like a doughnut. The patient lies very still on a table and slides into the opening of the machine. A technologist monitors from another room and communicates with the patient by microphone, if necessary. The machine will then begin whirring and clicking as the magnetic field is generated and radio waves are directed toward the patient’s body. Many patients listen to music on earphones to induce greater relaxation and avoid moving around too much or feeling claustrophobic. Usually an MRI lasts about an hour or so. Sometimes patients need to be administered contrast dye to enhance the appearance of blood vessels or tissues and patients are occasionally sedated. After the test, a radiologist will interpret the test results and issue a report to the patient’s primary medical physicians.
In February of 2009, the American Heart Association warned patients and doctors to weigh the benefits and the risks of medical imaging tests involving radiation exposure. Half of the medical radiation dose comes from CT scans, but cardiac imaging, nuclear medicine and x-rays are also sources. By contrast, the MRI test makes use of magnetic fields and radio waves, which do not expose patients to radiation. Even though the other tests are believed to pose no serious threats to patients, some researchers question the long-term impact. As a result, diagnostic radiology involving the MRI is expected to increase in the coming years.
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