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MRI Equipment
Magnetic resonance imaging is one form of medical imaging procedure that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to visualize the inside structure of the body. This procedure is able to show more detail and is more useful in the visualization of the soft tissues of the body. An MRI procedure uses a specific MRI equipment called the MRI scanner that looks like a white tunnel where the patient to be tested is placed. This is the MRI equipment that contains the strong magnetic field that causes the hydrogen atoms in the body to align in a position in order to receive radio signals. These signals are sent back by the body and collected by an attached computer which processes these signals into images. Radio wave transmitters are one kind of MRI equipment that is placed on the part of the body being scanned. For example''if the head and neck need to be scannedradio wave transmitters on a helmet- like piece of MRI equipment is worn by the patient. For scanning the spineabdomen and chest the transmitters are placed beneath the patient's body as he or she lies down. Radio wave transmitters are applied to the joints when the joints need to be visualized.
Magnetic resonance imaging is used to visualize anything from skeletal muscles to smooth muscles'' as well as the interior structure of the bones. An MRI breast exam for example is a common procedure done on women today.
The first MRI used on a human was in 1977 with knowledge gathered from studies on nuclear magnetic resonance.
Disadvantages of Magnetic Resonance Imaging
One reason why MRI imaging may not be suitable for all types of patients is due to MRI equipment. The tunnel-like MRI machine may often be unsuitable for claustrophobic patients''necessitating the need for another diagnostic imaging technique such as a CT scan or an ultrasound. Patients are also required to lie very still once inside the MRI equipment something which may not be possible with very young children or those with mental problems.
MRI Safety
Patients are often given ample instruction and information about the procedure and the equipment to be used in the procedure. They may be told not to eat or drink anything 4-6 hours before the procedure. Patients that may have had metals in their bodies''sheet metal workersfor exampleare screened for any pieces of metal in their eyes and anywhere in the body. Any other kind of metal such as metal pocket knivespensletter openerswatchesjewelry and dentures are checked for and removed from the room.
When necessary'' the patient may be given a sedative or a drug to help them relax during the procedure.
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