What is an MRI?

Answer:
An MRI, which stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging,

is a type of medical imaging technique used to see the internal structure of the patient’s body. As the patient enters the magnetic field generated by the MRI machine, the protons in the water molecules in the patient’s body align with the field. When the field is briefly turned off, the protons return to their original positions, and the change in alignment generates a signal which is then detected by a scanner and interpreted to form an image. By repeatedly turning the field on and off as the scanner repositions itself, a three-dimensional layered image of the patient can be created.

Unlike other similar imaging techniques, MRI scans show much more contrast between different types of soft tissues. Additionally, different types of liquids, known as contrast agents, can be used to enhance the contrast shown in the scan to show the anatomy of interest.

Because of the very high power magnetic field used in an MRI machine, several safety risks are known to occur. The most common of these are known as “missile effect accidents,” where ferromagnetic objects in the field, usually piercings or implants, are violently attracted to the center of the magnet. The loud noise of the machine, which sometimes exceeds 120 dB, can also cause hearing damage to those in the same room.


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