What Is An MRI Scan?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging or MRI is a procedure used to scan the inner structure of an organism comprising of the various tissues and organs to detect any abnormality in the form of an unnatural growth like for example a tumor. The system is also used widely outside the medical field especially to conduct geological research like for example to determine rock permeability and also as a testing method.

An MRI scan makes use of low energy radio frequency pulses and a strong magnetic field that can be changed as required, to develop images and is used in medicine primarily in cases which require the imaging of soft tissues like the brain rather than bones which are comprised of denser tissues; it is consequently harmless to human beings as compared to ionizing radiations like X-rays. An MRI scan is highly versatile in the sense that a cross section of an image in any plane can be obtained by using the technique.

There are different types of MRI techniques as the situation demands for example Magnetic Resonance Angiography used to determine narrowing or weakening of arteries, Magnetic Resonance Spectroscopy which helps in gaining knowledge of the chemical composition of the body part being examined and Diffusion MRI which helps in mapping brain regions to determine their connectivity which in turn helps in finding signs of neural damage. People who have a pace maker implanted or any metal object inserted in the body as a result of any surgical procedure are advised against undergoing an MRI scan.