Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) uses radiofrequency waves and a strong magnetic field rather than x-rays to provide remarkably clear and detailed pictures of internal organs and tissues. MRI is particularly useful for spine, brain and joint spaces of the upper and lower extremities, and is capable of showing soft tissues of the body and internal structures with a high degree of detail not found with other imaging equipment. This also makes it useful in diagnosing conditions such as blood flow and vessel disorders, and eye abnormalities.
In specific instances, MRI is also useful for evaluating problems in the chest, abdomen and pelvis, particularly if other imaging studies, such as CT and ultrasound have raised questions. The technique has proven very valuable for the diagnosis of a broad range of pathologic conditions in all parts of the body including cancer, heart and vascular disease, stroke, and joint and musculoskeletal disorders. MRI requires specialized equipment and expertise and allows evaluation of some body structures that may not be as visible with other imaging methods.
What are some common uses of the MRI procedure?
Because MRI can give such clear pictures of soft-tissue structures near and around bones, it is the most sensitive exam for spinal and joint problems. MRI is widely used to diagnose sports-related injuries, especially those affecting the knee, shoulder, hip, elbow and wrist. The images allow the physician to see even very small tears and injuries to ligaments and muscles.
In addition, MRI of the heart, aorta, coronary arteries and blood vessels is a fast, noninvasive tool for diagnosing coronary artery disease and heart problems. Physicians can examine the size and thickness of the chambers of the heart and determine the extent of damage caused by a heart attack or progressive heart disease.
Organs of the chest and abdomen—including the lungs, liver, kidney, spleen, pancreas and abdominal vessels—can also be examined in high detail with MRI, enabling the diagnosis and evaluation of tumors and functional disorders. MRI is growing in popularity as an alternative to traditional x-ray mammography in the early diagnosis of breast cancer. Because no radiation exposure is involved, MRI is often the preferred diagnostic tool for examination of the male and female reproductive systems, pelvis and hips and the bladder.
Open MRI
Difficulties with a traditional MRI scan include claustrophobia and patient size or, for health related reasons, patients who are not able to receive this type of diagnostic test. The MRI unit is a limited space, and some patients may be too large to fit in a narrow tunnel. In addition, weight limits can restrict the use of some scanners. The open MRI magnet has become the best option for those patients. All of the highest resolution MRI scanners are tunnels and tend to accentuate the claustrophobic reaction.
Baptist M&S Imaging utilizes the Siemens Magnetom Open Viva. The Open Viva system has an open C-shaped magnet which is open on 3 sides and creates a wide horizontal opening that increases patient comfort and allows easy access to the patient. The wide horizontal opening also allows for the patient to have a loved one, a friend or care-giver present next to them while their exam is being completed. If you, or your patient, are claustrophobic or just this is your first MRI experience and you don't know what to expect, Baptist M&S Imaging can help.
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