Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a diagnostic technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to produce detailed images of the inside of the human body.
• It’s a non-invasive procedure, meaning it doesn’t require any incisions or injections into the body.
• MRI works by emitting a magnetic field that aligns the protons in the water molecules found in the body’s tissues. These protons then absorb energy from the radio waves, which is released as they return to their original position, creating a detailed image.
• This technique is particularly useful for imaging soft tissues such as the brain, spinal cord, muscles, and organs like the heart and liver. It can help to diagnose a number of health conditions including tumours, strokes, infections and injuries.
• The MRI scan can detect minute differences between normal and diseased tissues, making it a valuable tool in early disease detection.
• Unlike x-rays and CT scans, MRI does not involve any exposure to ionising radiation, which can be harmful with repeated exposure.
• During an MRI scan, the individual lies inside a large cylindrical machine. The process is painless but can be uncomfortable due to the confined space and the noise generated by the machine.
• An MRI scan can take anywhere from 15 minutes to an hour or more, depending on the part of the body being examined and the type of image required.
• One key precaution before an MRI scan is removing any metal objects as the intense magnetic field can cause these to move or heat up. This also means that individuals with certain metal implants or electronic devices may not be suitable for MRI scans.
• The images generated from an MRI scan are digital and can be viewed on a computer monitor, printed on film or transferred to a disc. A radiologist - a doctor specially trained to interpret these types of images - will then analyse the images.
• There are a few side effects and risks associated with MRI scans. These include heightened anxiety due to the enclosed nature of the machine (claustrophobia), discomfort from lying still, and possible allergic reactions to any contrast materials used.
• Despite these risks, the benefits of an MRI in accurately diagnosing serious conditions are considered to outweigh these side effects, making it an important tool in medical imaging.
• Current developments in MRI technology include functional MRI (fMRI), which can track changes in blood flow in the brain to detect activity, and quantitative MRI (qMRI), which can provide more detailed measurements of tissue properties.