What is MR?

Satunnainen

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging method that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the body’s internal structures. MRI is particularly useful for imaging soft tissues such as the brain, spinal cord, joints, and internal organs.

How does MRI work?

MRI is based on nuclear magnetic resonance, where the nuclei of the body’s hydrogen atoms react to the magnetic field and radio waves. When the patient is placed in the MRI machine, a strong magnetic field is applied to the body, and radio waves are sent through the body. This causes the nuclei of the hydrogen atoms to resonate, i.e. vibrate. When the radio waves are turned off, the nuclei return to their original state and release energy that can be measured and converted into an image.

MRI advantages

  • Non-ionizing radiation: Unlike X-rays and computed tomography (CT), MRI does not use ionizing radiation, making it a safer option, especially for repeated examinations.
  • Excellent soft tissue resolution: MRI provides highly detailed images of soft tissues, making it an ideal method for examining the brain, spinal cord, joints and internal organs.
  • Versatility: MRI can image different parts of the body and is suitable for diagnosing many diseases and injuries.

Disadvantages and limitations of MRI

  • Costs: MRI examinations are often more expensive than other imaging methods.
  • Time: MRI examinations can take longer than, for example, X-ray or CT examinations.
  • Limitations: Not all patients can use MRI, for example those with metallic implants or pacemakers.

Applications

MRI is widely used in various fields of medicine. Here are some examples:

  1. Neurology: Diagnosis of diseases of the brain and spinal cord, such as tumors, stroke and multiple sclerosis.
  2. Orthopedics: The study of injuries and diseases of joints, muscles and bones, such as osteoarthritis and tears.
  3. Cardiology: Evaluation of the structures and function of the heart and blood vessels.
  4. Oncology: Detection and monitoring of various cancers.

Summary

Magnetic imaging is a valuable and versatile imaging method that provides detailed images of the body’s internal structures without ionizing radiation. It has a wide range of applications and is particularly useful in the study of soft tissues. Although MRI has some limitations and can be expensive, the advantages it offers make it an invaluable tool in many areas of medicine.

You can read more information about MRI, for example, at Terveyskirjasto and From the Mayo Clinic website.

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