Most people will experience a Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI at some point in their lives. Whether it’s to assess a broken bone or get a closer look at soft tissue, this imaging technology is one of the best tools health practitioners have to determine the damage done inside the body. This simple test is very non-invasive and can be done in as little as 30 minutes (or 2 hours at most). Many patients lie inside the machine, wearing headphones, with their eyes closed as though they are resting. Meanwhile, the magnets whir around them, producing images that can help doctors in their diagnosis and treatment.
There are many uses for Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI technology. For sensitive injuries, there is no better tool than an MRI of the brain and spinal cord. MRI scans help diagnose tumors, aneurysms, strokes, multiple sclerosis, dementia, spinal cord injuries, pituitary gland diseases and developmental abnormalities. Heart patients need an MRI to assess their medical issue as well, as it can view the size and thickness of the heart chamber walls, buildup of plaque in blood vessels and the level of damage from a heart attack or heart disease. Using imaging technology, a doctor can see damage, tumors or abnormalities in the lungs, liver, kidneys, pancreas, spleen, uterus, ovaries, prostate, testicles, breasts, bones and joints. A functional MRI of the brain can be used to examine how the brain responds to certain physical and mental tasks.
To prepare themselves for the MRI scan, patients will let their medical practitioner know if they are allergic to any medications, are pregnant, have a pacemaker or metal implants, have had an accident that may have left metal shards in their bodies, have had recent blood vessel surgery, have an intrauterine device, suffer from claustrophobia, wear medication patches or suffer from conditions like sickle cell anemia that may react poorly to the contrast material. Often patients will bring someone to drive them home after the test because sedatives are sometimes administered.
Even though medical imaging using a Magnetic Resonance Imaging MRI scanner has been in existence for over 30 years, we can anticipate a number of advances in this technology. Researchers are looking at ways to create smaller scanners that can be placed over a knee, a foot or a shoulder blade to get a quick glimpse within seconds. They’re also looking at ways of improving the MRI of the arteries and veins. Functional MRI (scans while people are completing tasks) is helping researchers understand the inner-workings of the brain like never before.
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