MRI Risks / Benefits
MRI, which stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is a means for physicians to view internal structures without opening up the body in surgery. This useful technique requires expensive equipment that uses powerful magnets and computers to generate images of the bones, organs, tissues and even the blood vessels. The MRI scan uses different technology than x-rays and computed tomography scans. Instead of ionizing radiation, the scan utilizes a powerful magnetic machine, radio-waves and computers to generate clearer pictures of the body.
MRI scans are considered to be very safe, with over 150 million patients scanned so far. Before the exam, patients will be asked to change into a hospital gown and remove any jewelry, hair clips, eye glasses, watches, wigs, dentures, hearing aids, under-wire bras and body piercing objects. Metallic/ferromagnetic objects can move suddenly within the system, which is why radiologists ask that patients remove these items before entering the room. Most patients will have no trouble getting scanned, but interference may occur if you have metallic joint prostheses, artificial heart valves, an implantable defibrillator, a pacemaker, metal clips, cochlear implants or bullet shrapnel in your body.
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.
The MRI is a non-invasive way of looking for a host of medical problems. Since the scan produces such clear images of soft tissues, it is especially suited for detecting sports-related injuries, spinal cord injuries and joint problems. Knees, shoulders, wrists and elbows are often examined, but the specialist can also see damage done to ligaments and muscles as well. Taking an MRI of the heart, coronary arteries and blood vessels is another widespread use for this diagnostic test. The heart isn’t the only organ visible using diagnostic radiology, though. The lungs, liver, pancreas, spleen and kidneys can also be viewed in great detail. Many people prefer using a scan for their pelvis, breast, prostate and bladder exams as well because they will have no radiation exposure (as there is with x-rays).
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