General
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is also known as magnetic resonance imaging. It is an imaging examination procedure which, unlike X-rays and computed tomography (CT), is not based on X-rays and therefore has the advantage that the patient is not exposed to radiation. The images that are taken during an MRI are created by applying a strong magnetic field.
This influences hydrogen atoms in the human body, which in turn emit radio waves. These radio waves can be detected by a computer and from this the MRI images are produced. These are sectional images of the human body, which show the corresponding body region in great detail. This makes it possible to detect very small changes in tissue and to diagnose a disease at an early stage.
Reasons
The MRI examination is used to diagnose or rule out many different diseases. MRI can also be used for sales control or to check the success of a therapy. In principle, magnetic resonance imaging provides more detailed images than computer tomography.
However, some organs, such as the lungs, are not imaged as well. MRI is particularly suitable for detecting changes in the soft tissues of the body. These include blood vessels, tendons, muscles, ligaments and cartilage.
The brain, spinal cord, intervertebral discs and internal organs can also be depicted very well on the images. In addition, magnetic resonance imaging plays an important role in tumor diagnostics. Tumors and metastases can be detected even from a very small size.
An MRI examination can be carried out on various areas of the body. In the area of the head, bleeding and brain edema can be quickly detected and the course of certain diseases, such as multiple sclerosis (MS), can be monitored. Many organs, such as the thyroid gland, heart, liver, kidney, adrenal gland, gallbladder, spleen, pancreas, colon and the reproductive organs can be examined precisely for the smallest changes. Joints and bones can also be assessed very well.
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