Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

The general practitioners of this day are fully aware of various medical imaging techniques available to them. However, even though we have heard of these procedures, we do not have any notion about them. Yes, most of the readers might be aware of the fact that MRI scans can make a significant dent in one's pocket! Why is this imaging technique preferred to the conventional CT scans?

Traditionally, doctors used CT (computer tomography) to study the internal organs. However, with the passage of time, they began to concentrate on MRI. They did it because the procedure could give higher contrast images (in comparison to the images produced via CT scans). Images with greater clarity paved the way for effective diagnosis of the medical ailments that affected a particular person.

How does MRI scanning work? In your primary classes, you might have learnt that water composes approximately 80 percent of the body. MRI scanning utilizes the hydrogen molecules present in water to create a definite impression of any part or organ in the body. When the patient or a part of them is placed on the path of the magnetic waves generated by extremely powerful magnets, the hydrogen molecules would realign themselves.

Bear in mind that this is a rough illustration of the MRI scanner's working. I understand that some of the readers might have their doubts; but kindly consider the fact that these magnets are suitably handled so that a complete construction of the bodily parts or organs takes place. When we consider the other kinds of medical imaging techniques, MRI is still a relatively newer technology because it was instituted into the medical field only in the 70s. In order to differentiate between the tissues, the radiologists might inject "contrast agents" into the system of the patient. This would enable the resultant image to demarcate clearly the various types of cellular structures.

A radiologist must consider various aspects before subjecting someone to MRI scanner. Since the same patient is entitled to a stream of highly charged magnetic particles, it might affect the functioning of pacemakers or hearing aids. Hence, the subject must be stripped down (or must avoid the procedure) in order to stay away from additional complications.

What are the practical applications of MRI scans? For starters, the technique is widely used to study various kinds of tumor-containing cells that are located on the patient. As mentioned earlier, the affected part or organ will be injected with a contrasting agent and this would enable the radiologist and the physician to make a precise diagnosis. CT scans use powerful x-ray beams that are known to cause cancer (only if subjected to high doses for extremely lengthy measures of time). This is yet another reason why physicians recommend MRI over CT scans.

There are various kinds of MRI scans and the patient will be subjugated to either one or a couple of these for accurate diagnosis of the condition (thank to various types of health research). Sometimes, a combination of MRI and ultrasound is used to locate tumors.