MRI Scan

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique that is often used to diagnose health conditions that affect organs, tissue and bones.

MRI scans use strong magnetic fields and radio waves to produce a detailed image of the inside of the body. The MRI scanner consists of a large tube containing a series of powerful magnets. The patient lies inside the tube during the scan without moving.

History of MRI Scans

The scientific principles behind MRI were discovered in 1946, but it was not until the 1970s that the technology first became available to use these principles.

Early on, most MRI scanners were only available at large research centres. However, as the price of the scanners decreased, they became more widely available and accessible. The Bridgewater Hospital has a state-of-the-art Sieman’s scanner installed.

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.