An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) scan is a form of soft-tissue testing that came to the forefront of diagnostic medicine in the early 1980s. An MRI, unlike an x-ray or CT scan, emits no radiation. Instead, Netdoctor explains that an MRI uses magnetic radiowaves---10 to 30 thousand times stronger than that of the magnetic force of the earth. There are varying types of MRI scans, each one playing an important role in the diagnoses of illness.
An MRI scan is a form of soft-tissue testing.
Brain and Neck
An MRI that exams the soft tissue of the brain can be an important diagnostic tools for physicians who are trying to determine the origin of an illness such as, Parkinson's disease. According to the University of California, San Diego, an MRI of the soft tissue of the neck can help to diagnose masses, tumors and lesions as well as, vascular and structural abnormalities.
Cardiac and Breast
Cardiac MRI scans are highly effective in determining heart problems that are a result of physical abnormalities or hereditary factors. Radiology Info.org explains that a cardiac MRI scan may sometimes involve the use of a contrast agent that is administered at the vein. The contrast agent provides a brighter MRI image of the internal body tissues. Breast MRI scans have not yet been developed for the detection of breast cancer but are useful in the evaluation of silicone breast implants.
Spine
Spine MRI scans is often ordered in cases where back pain is an issue. The MRI scan may also be recommended when loss of feeling occurs in the extremities of the body. According to the U.S. National Library of Medicine, an MRI scan can reveal tumors or spinal deficiencies such as, spinal cord compression or bulging disks.
Abdomen, Pelvis and the Liver
MRI scans can also be performed on the abdomen and pelvis as well as, the liver. An MRI scan of the abdomen or liver can show abscesses, hemangiomas (benign tumors) or any other abnormalities that may exist within the abdominal organs. An MRI of the pelvis is usually performed to help with the diagnosis of reproductive conditions in women, according to emedicinehealth.com. Pelvic MRI scans in men are often performed to help diagnose the existence of prostate cancer.
Extremities
Body parts such as the fingers, arms, legs, feet, elbows, wrist and hand can all be scanned with MRI technology. Aetna reports that the use of an MRI scan to evaluate the extremities is appropriate when there is a need to diagnose a mass or localized infection. An MRI of the extremities may also be deemed necessary prior to surgery or in the case of unhealed, problematic fractures.
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