Magnetic resonance imaging is one of the most widely used imaging technologies. It is used to diagnose a wide variety of conditions, including spine problems. It consists of a big magnet (which is a large tube) and a computer. It uses sound waves to create cross-sectional images of what’s inside the body. An MRI can give detailed images of soft tissues and organs, unlike X-rays. Even better, it doesn’t use radiation, which is a big concern for doctors and patients alike.
Signs It May Be Time for an MRI
Your doctor will tell you if you need an MRI based on your symptoms. If you need it, your doctor will give you a referral for one. Below you will find the most common reasons why doctors request MRIs for patients.
- Orthopedic injury
- Back pain
- Breast lump
- Lumps anywhere in the body
- Circulation problems
- Stroke
- Frequent headaches and migraines
- Memory problems
The reason why an MRI is most widely used in the diagnosis of spine problems is that the soft tissues of bulging discs show up clearly in image results. Cysts, tumors, and scar tissue also show up clearly in an MRI scan. The results will also show differentiation between fluid, discs, and fat, as well as supportive tissue, nerve roots, and bone. An MRI can even be used to measure blood flow in the brain.
An MRI can help doctors diagnose:
- Brain tumors, damage, and injury
- An aneurysm
- Breast tumors
- Heart damage, inflammation, and valve problems
- Spinal cord injuries
- Arthritis
- Joint damage
- Bone infections
- Herniated discs
- Liver disease
- Kidney disease
- Ovarian cancer
- Pancreatic cancer
- Prostate cancer
When a doctor requests an MRI, the radiologist will get instructions on what to look for. The results will be used not only for diagnostic purposes but also to plan treatment. MRI is also used to monitor disease progression and the effectiveness of treatment.
3T MRI
Most MRI machines have a magnetic strength of MRI machines of 1.5 Tesla, or 1.5T. Not all MRI machines are created equal. Some are stronger than others. The magnetic strength of an MRI machine can affect the quality of images it produces. A stronger 3T MRI can produce much more detailed scans than the regular MRI machine, as the magnets used are twice as powerful. What this means is it can detect even the most difficult-to-see abnormalities that a regular MRI machine may miss. 3T MRIs also have a wider bore, which can reduce feelings of claustrophobia and anxiety.
A 3T MRI is the fastest, highest quality, and one of the more comfortable MRI machines available.
Schedule Your MRI Scan Now
At Starling Diagnostics, we make the latest in MRI technology available to our patients. If your doctor has requested an MRI, schedule your appointment with us. We are proud to be of service to the Bronx community. To schedule your MRI scan, call Starling Diagnostics at (718) 319-1610, or use our appointment request form. We look forward to serving you in our Bronx diagnostic center.
Physicians, please use this form to make a referral.
