The Machine
The Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine is a loud, noisy device that works on the principles of magnetism and the body. It is designed to provide a more detailed picture than an X-ray of the body's internal workings. A patient first enters the machine by lying on his back or side. The machine focuses on one particular target body part, so a patient must be as still as possible when the machine is on.
The Scan
Once the patient is positioned properly on the table, the MRI's magnet is turned on and begins to move around the target area via a large tube. Radio waves are also activated and focus on the target area as well. The combination of the magnets and radio waves help form the MRI picture. These images are formed because water in the body contains protons that will align with the direction of the magnet. As the protons align, the radio wave "captures" their position and relays the picture back to the MRI image transmitting devices. The result is a 3-D replica of the targeted body part.
Uses
The MRI is very useful to the field of medicine because of its ability to provide detailed images. MRI scans are often very vivid pictures showing contrasts in areas like the skull, which can give insight to mental disorders and brain development. The MRI is also used on athletes to reveal exact areas of any torn tendons, ligaments or muscles.
In addition to diagnosing brain injuries or muscles, an MRI will also help diagnose major diseases. Tumors and masses can be seen more clearly with an MRI, helping oncologists determine what stage of cancer a patient may be in. It can also help diagnose multiple sclerosis and related issues.
Safety
Since the MRI involves heavy use of a magnet, extreme caution must be taken when in near the machine. All metal objects should be removed and placed well outside of the area, since an MRI's magnetic pull increases exponentially as you get closer to it. Credit cards and debit cards should also be out of the area, since the MRI machine can erase the stored data on them.
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