Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI,produces images of the human body without the use of X-rays, which can enable early detection of many developing diseases or abnormalities.
MRI uses a powerful, but harmless, magnetic field and radiowaves. The combination of radiowaves and magnetic field produce detailed images of the body structures. A computer then converts the information into pictures. Sometimes an injection will be performed with contrast, which will give more detail for some types of studies.
The average MRI scan takes 50 minutes, with a complete exam running approximately 60 minutes. During this time, several dozen images may be obtained. The study is absolutely painless and there are no known physical side effects.
