Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive scanning process used by doctors to capture detailed high-quality images of the internal organs and tissues in the human body. MRI scanners require patients to lie flat surrounded by powerful magnets. The magnets are used to align the nuclei in the body, causing them to produce a magnetic field. This magnetic field is then detected by the MRI scanner, which records the data and translates it into an image of the body. The scanner applies magnetic gradients in different directions to construct 2D and 3D images much clear than other types of scans.
MRI vs. X-ray vs. CT scans
The images from an MRI scan offer better contrast than traditional X-ray or CT scans because MRI’s make it easier to distinguish between different tissues and organs of the body. X-rays are unable to show bodily tissues and organs clearly. Neither images from a CT scan or X-ray are able to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissue; and both require harmful iodizing radiation that MRI scans do not. Patients can receive a MRI scan without risk or any side effects and this type of scan may be best for patients who will need several scans within a short period of time. Determining the type of scan that is best for you depends on the area your doctor is interested in.
If a patient has any metal inside of their body like cochlear implants, insulin pumps, loop recorders, or shrapnel fragments, MRI scans may not be the best choice. An MRI machine will cause all metal objects to become hot and possibly malfunction while the patient is being scanned. The reaction to metal is so strong that nothing metal may enter the MRI Room during the scan. For patients with permanent metal implants, an MRI may not be considered a safe option.