Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

General Information

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a modern sectional image procedure, whereby very precise images are produced through the use of magnetic fields and radio waves, in such a way that even the smallest parts (atomic hydrogen) present in all body tissues develop a magnetic momentum due to their varied rotation around their own axes (magnetic resonance).

During the examination the patient is positioned in a strong homogeneous magnetic field.  This magnetic field effects a mutual alignment of the atomic hydrogen in the body along the longitudinal axis of the magnetic field.
When a short radio signal is sent, the atomic hydrogens start to sway and when the correct frequency is chosen, attain resonance.
Minimal energy is created.  This energy differentiates itself from the various tissue types in the body (e.g. bone and cartilage).  It will be measured by highly sensitive receiver systems and subsequently transformed by computers into exact image information.  The result is a layered image (tomography), which will then be analyzed at assessment stations.
By the way, the atomic hydrogens continue to circle all over the place after the examination as they did before.

During the MRI, no x-rays are used.