Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a type of medical imaging procedure that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to create images for diagnostic and treatment monitoring purposes. The machine itself is a giant magnet. During the test, the patient lies on a table and slides inside the tunnel-like machine.
The doctor may recommend an MRI if the patient has an injury, is in pain, or exhibiting neurological symptoms. The doctor may order an MRI if the results of previous imaging tests, such as X-rays and CT scans, are inconclusive.
Let’s talk about the key benefits of an MRI scan.
Radiation-Free Medical Imaging
There are imaging tests that use radiation, such as X-rays and CT scans. The MRI does not rely on radiation but sound waves to produce images of the body. MRI uses the natural magnetic properties of the body. While inside the machine, a radiofrequency is emitted. When the radiofrequency is turned off during the scan, the hydrogen atoms produce signals that are picked up and used to create images.
Since the MRI uses no radiation, it can accommodate more patients, such as pregnant women and babies.
Clear, Detailed Images
MRIs can create cross-sectional images of the body. This is made possible by sophisticated computer technology that combines 2D images to create 3D images.
Most MRI scanners have field strengths between 0.5 and 1.5 teslas (T). While these MRI machines can produce clear and detailed images, the strongest available field strength is measured at 3T. Using the field strength of 3T produces the clearest, most detailed images of the structures inside the body. It can show high-quality images of organs and soft tissues while highlighting a larger blood supply to an area that may indicate malignant tumors. An MRI is a commonly used medical imaging test for cancer. The MRI is also a very useful tool in examining the brain, spinal cord, circulation problems, and soft tissue injuries.
It has an advantage over the X-ray since it can detail swelling and inflammation. It has an advantage over a CT scan, which is better at revealing bone injuries because the MRI differentiates between muscle, water, and fat.
A Whole Body Scan
An MRI machine is designed to fit the whole human body. The head-to-toe scan offers significant advantages over other medical imaging tests. Since the MRI can scan the entire body and produce cross-sectional images, doctors can detect early signs of disease or abnormalities. Early stages of cancer, occurring anywhere in the body, can be detected using an MRI.
3T MRI Scan in Bronx, NY
Starling Diagnostics offers the latest in MRI technology. We use only 3T MRI, which is advantageous to the patient — shorter, yet more detailed scans. We are recognized for bringing the latest in medical imaging technology to the community, at highly affordable rates.
Our team of highly proficient radiologists and technicians use the 3T MRI for various diagnostic purposes. Please call our diagnostic clinic at (718) 319-1610 to schedule your MRI scan or use our online request form. If you are a physician, please use this form to make a referral.
