Find out more!
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
What is an MRI?
One of the most important advantages of Magnetic Resonance Imaging or MRI, is that no radiation is used, instead, strong magnetic fields and radio waves produce the detailed image of the inside of the body. Diseases can be diagnosed that are not possible with x-rays. The procedure is painless, not dangerous and has no known side effects.
What may be examined with an MRI?
Essentially, every organ of the body may be examined with the MRI scanner. Since we are, basically, a musculoskeletal center and ours is a magnetic field 0.4 Tesla machine, our focus is principally on examinations of the spine. The MRI, however, is also excellent for examining the joints of the shoulder, hip, ankle, wrist, elbow and hands.
The MRI is, currently, the most precise and sensitive diagnostic tool for identifying spine anomalies. Detailed images of the spine help the physician assess the vertebral structures and the status of the intervertebral discs in formulating a detailed analysis. It is the preferred method for early detection of degenerative as well as tumorous diseases. The MRI is the only method for showing the early stages of abnormalities accompanied by bone marrow edema, such as necrosis of the femoral head.
In the case of hip joint pain, neither x-rays nor ultrasonography will show abnormalities at all times. By the time changes in the bone caused by necrosis of the femoral head can be seen on an x-ray, the process has progressed to an irreversible degree necessitating, sooner or later, hip joint replacement. The MRI, on the other hand, makes early diagnosis of bone marrow edema, and its accompanying symptoms, possible thus allowing for complete recovery with the proper treatment.
In the case of the knee, anterior cruciate ligament tear (a frequent ski injury) or, for example, damaged cartilage may only be seen on an MRI. Neither x-rays nor ultrasonography are useful in these cases.
When may an MRI examination not be done?
Patients with pacemakers should, generally, not undergo MRI examinations. Very strict protocols do exist, however, under which MRI examination of patients with pacemakers may be allowed. Several surgically implanted foreign objects - such as vagus nerve stimulators, insulin pumps, cochlea implants, implantable cardioverter defibrillators and several other medical implants - may be a deterrent in an MRI examination.
Since they may constitute possible risks, safety factors should be considered individually in cases of Magnetizable foreign bodies (i.e., shrapnel pieces) or metal implants (i.e., surgical prostheses, aneurysm stenting). Titanium and its alloys, due to their non-magnetizable properties and low electrical conductivity, are, therefore, excellent basic materials for long-term surgical implants and surgical instruments.
Prior to entering the MRI examination room, the physician recommending an MRI examination and the radiologist or technician, must thoroughly inform the patient regarding any and all of the above-mentioned instruments and implants.
MRI examination may be done during pregnancy. No danger has been found to affect the fetus.
Our open MRI equipment makes the examination easier on patients suffering from claustrophobia.
