A Radiological Technique, Mri
MRI
The word MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. It is a non-invasive radiological technique used to produce images of a body organ. It was first used in 1997. Raymond Damadian was the person who created the first full body MRI scanner and is regarded as the father of MRI.
Basic Principle
It works on the principle Nuclear Magnet Resonance (NMR). As we all know, a human body contains large number of hydrogen atoms. They are present in random manner. When a person lies on MRI machine, the hydrogen ions inside the body get aligned in the direction of magnetic field generated by the magnets. A radiofrequency wave is applied perpendicular to the magnetic field which causes the already aligned hydrogen atoms to tilt. When the RF wave stops, atoms return to their previous positions and release a signal which is sent to the computer and an image is formed.
What can be diagnosed by it?
- Brain tumors
- Spine Injuries
- Brain disorders
- Dementia
- Traumatic injuries
- Musculoskeletal problems
- Different bone problems
- Different types of cancers
It has many advantages over other diagnostic machines. It is a non-ionizing and painless technique. It provides a better contrast than many others. Contrary to it, it also has many disadvantages. Many people have claustrophobia and they feel uncomfortable in MRI machine. It is also dangerous for people having metallic implants like pacemakers. Blurry images are produced if a person moves during MRI conduction.
