This site was created to explain a typical MRI scan Procedure.  We'll also discuss an MRI scan with contrast, MRI scan safety, and the difference between MRI vs CT scans. Our hope is to prepare you for your exam while helping to relieve some of the normal fear and anxiety typically associated with MRI scanning. Select some links on the left to see a few sample MRI Images.

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a type of scan that is often used to diagnose health conditions that affect organs, tissue and bone. Unlike x-rays and computed tomographic (CT) scans, which use radiation, MRI uses powerful magnets and radio waves. The MRI scanner contains the magnet. The magnetic field produced by an MRI is about 10 thousand times greater than the earth's. The magnetic field forces hydrogen atoms in the body to line up in a certain way (similar to how the needle on a compass moves when you hold it near a magnet). When radio waves are sent toward the lined-up hydrogen atoms, they bounce back, and a computer records the signal. Different types of tissues send back different signals. Single MRI images are called slices. The images can be stored on a computer, burned on a CD, or printed on film. One exam produces dozens or sometimes hundreds of images. History The scientific principles behind MRI were discovered in 1946, but it was not until the 1970s that the technology became available to use these principles. At first, most MRI scanners were only available at large research centers. However, as the price of the scanners decreased, they started to become more widely available and now many hospitals and out-patient facilities offer MRI's. Safety One of the main advantages of MRI is that, unlike X-rays, it does not involve exposing the body to radiation. Extensive research has also been conducted into whether the magnetic and radio waves that are used in MRI could pose a risk to the human body. No evidence that there is a risk has ever been found. This means that MRI is one of the safest medical procedures currently available. The majority of orthopedic surgerys that require metalic implants such as pins, surgical staples, spinal hardware, hip, knee, shoulder replacements are usually safe. As a general rule of thumb if you have any metal in your body you should inform the technologist prior to entering the scan room. MRI Scans are not recommended for People that have had surgically implanted Ferrous materials such as Pacemakers, Neurostimulators, or Aneurysm clips.