MRI – Magnetic Resonance Imagining
Magnetic resonance imaging was first introduced in the 1970s and began to become widely used in the 1980s. This imagining technique differs from x-ray approaches in that MRI uses a powerful magnet, radio waves, and computer technology to produce images of body structure and internal organs. The tool is very useful because of its broad imagining capabilities as well as its ability to accurately show soft tissue as well as bone and joint conditions.
MRI’s are sometimes taken of head injuries to detect concussions, bleeding, or brain injuries. Other applications include identification of brain tumors, weakened blood vessels (aneurysms), or stroke. Use of MRI’s limits the amount of radiation a patient is exposed to as compared to CT scans or x-rays. Today radiation exposure in all types of testing has been greatly reduced through technological improvements.
A powerful magnetic field is used to produce the MRI’s image by passing the field over the patient and the exam area. This magnetic field forces atomic particles called protons to align with the magnetic field. When the magnet is turned off, the protons return to their original positions, releasing energy as they move back. This released energy is observed and recorded and can be interpreted by a computer as various types and densities of tissue and bone materials. While MRI’s can be a very effective diagnostic tool, patients with non-removable metallic implants may not be able to undergo an MRI due to the pull of the magnetic field. The noise and confinement of the equipment may be uncomfortable for some patients. The imagining takes longer than a CT scan, so when time is of the essence, an MRI may not be the best choice. Only a skilled specialist in diagnostic imagining can determine the most appropriate imagining technique for any given patient or condition.
Other typical applications of MRI studies include:
- Examination of the chest and abdomen (heart, kidneys, bowel, spleen and other organs).
- Pelvic organs including bladder, reproductive organs, and prostate.
- Heart problems, blood vessels, and lymph nodes, and
- Solid tumors in the chest, organs, abdomen, and pelvic areas.
The Emergency Hospital Systems emergency rooms offer a wide range of top of the line analytical, diagnostic imaging tools and procedures to meet any medical emergency challenge. When you come to one of our emergency rooms, our compassionate and skilled staff will evaluate your condition, determine the most appropriate diagnostic requirements, conduct needed tests, and provide the proper medical treatment. You can be confident your medical emergency requirements are in competent hands at EHS emergency rooms. We are there when you need us the most.