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. 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 which 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.

MR images are formed by the computer processing of signals that are emitted by body tissue. These signals 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. The magnetic field is used to align hydrogen protons in the body. Radio frequencywaves are absorbed by the protons and then emitted as a signal. A radio frequency coil picks up the signal and transmits it to the computer. The computer processes the data and an image is generated.