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Tests & Examinations
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MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. MRI uses a strong magnetic field and a radio beam to create an image of internal organs. It provides better contrast of body tissues than X-ray and CT scans. Bone does not block MRI. It can make images from angles that are difficult with CT scans. It can also produce images of organs in motion. MRI avoids any health risks from X-ray exposure or contrast dyes used for X-ray tests. It causes no known harm to cells. MRI is expensive. Therefore it is usually reserved for cases where other imaging methods are not sufficient. It has proved useful for evaluating:* brain lesions, tumors, abscesses, and excess fluid, * spinal cord disorders, * nerve disorders, such as multiple sclerosis, * problems with joints, * bony and soft tissue tumors, * diseases of blood vessels, * inflammation and infection in bones or other tissues, and * diseases of the adrenal glands, kidneys, prostate, and bladder. Pregnant women do not receive MRI. The person cannot have pacemakers, internal clips, or any metal in their bodies other than tooth fillings. The test takes up to 90 minutes. It is an outpatient procedure. The person does not undress, but must remove all metal objects. This includes jewelry, hearing aids, glasses, dentures, belts, and bras with wire in them. The person lies on a bed that slides into a small tunnel. A mild sedative may be given to people who fear enclosed spaces. The patient must remain still during the scan. The scanner makes a lot of clicking and whirring noises. On occasion, examiners must inject a contrast dye containing trace amounts of radioactive material. Radiation exposure from the dye is extremely low and safe. Normal activity may be resumed after the test.
Copyright © 1997 National Health Enhancement Systems, Inc.
(602) 230-7575. All rights reserved. Information in this document is subject to change
without notice.
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