Magnetic resonance imaging is a type of scan that is used as a diagnostic tool. It has the ability to create images of the internal structures of a patient's body. The test is somewhat similar to an ultrasound or computed tomography, otherwise known as a CAT scan, but is capable of taking a much more detailed picture. Doctors often send patients to Lakewood MRI facilities when it is necessary to diagnose internal problems.
Magnetic resonance imaging is not an invasive procedure and is regarded as safe. For this reason, it is perfect for patients who have an aversion to uncomfortable procedures and invasive tests. In addition, there is essentially no preparation needed before an MRI scan. In some instances, a patient may be required to fast for approximately twelve hours before the test. However, this is not always required.
The scan itself can take up to an hour or it can be completed in as little as 15 minutes, depending on the internal area that is being evaluated. Patients are often given headphones so that they can listen to music while the test is in progress. This is because the machine used to complete the scan makes a noise similar to the sound of metal being struck with a small hammer. Although the sound is not extremely loud, some patients find it unsettling.
The scanning device is circular in shape and the person is transported slowly through a tunnel-shaped area in its center. Pictures can be created of essentially any internal structure, such as the kidneys, abdomen, reproductive organs, joints, blood vessels and brain. Cysts, tumors, fractures, and other abnormalities will be clearly defined on the finished pictures.
Radio waves and strong magnets are used during the test to ensure the quality of the aforementioned pictures. When the latter are reviewed, a radiologist or other health care professional will be able to determine the type of disease or condition from which the patient maybe suffering. These results will be forwarded to the individual's primary health care practitioner who can subsequently recommend the most appropriate treatment.
One advantage associated with MRI technology is the fact that it can be used to uncover numerous medical conditions of which other tests are not capable. For instance, certain kinds of tumors will not be identified through the use of x-rays, CAT scans or ultrasounds. However, when magnetic resonance imaging is used, such abnormalities will be clearly defined.
Patients who are claustrophobic or who cannot tolerate being placed in a confined area may be averse to such a test. However, since the late 1990s, such patients have had an alternative to the traditional MRI scan. This is referred to as an open MRI. In most cases, medical insurance will cover this alternative scan for those who are claustrophobic.
There are certain individuals for which this test is not suitable. These include patients with medical implants such as pacemakers. This is because any type of metal in or on one's body can interfere with the scanning procedure and skew the results. Such scans are contraindicated for pregnant women as well. Patients who are sent to Lakewood MRI facilities will likely receive a more specific diagnosis than would be available if other, less sophisticated tests were used. For this reason, many doctors and patients avail themselves of the benefits provided by magnetic resonance imaging technology.
Magnetic resonance imaging is not an invasive procedure and is regarded as safe. For this reason, it is perfect for patients who have an aversion to uncomfortable procedures and invasive tests. In addition, there is essentially no preparation needed before an MRI scan. In some instances, a patient may be required to fast for approximately twelve hours before the test. However, this is not always required.
The scan itself can take up to an hour or it can be completed in as little as 15 minutes, depending on the internal area that is being evaluated. Patients are often given headphones so that they can listen to music while the test is in progress. This is because the machine used to complete the scan makes a noise similar to the sound of metal being struck with a small hammer. Although the sound is not extremely loud, some patients find it unsettling.
The scanning device is circular in shape and the person is transported slowly through a tunnel-shaped area in its center. Pictures can be created of essentially any internal structure, such as the kidneys, abdomen, reproductive organs, joints, blood vessels and brain. Cysts, tumors, fractures, and other abnormalities will be clearly defined on the finished pictures.
Radio waves and strong magnets are used during the test to ensure the quality of the aforementioned pictures. When the latter are reviewed, a radiologist or other health care professional will be able to determine the type of disease or condition from which the patient maybe suffering. These results will be forwarded to the individual's primary health care practitioner who can subsequently recommend the most appropriate treatment.
One advantage associated with MRI technology is the fact that it can be used to uncover numerous medical conditions of which other tests are not capable. For instance, certain kinds of tumors will not be identified through the use of x-rays, CAT scans or ultrasounds. However, when magnetic resonance imaging is used, such abnormalities will be clearly defined.
Patients who are claustrophobic or who cannot tolerate being placed in a confined area may be averse to such a test. However, since the late 1990s, such patients have had an alternative to the traditional MRI scan. This is referred to as an open MRI. In most cases, medical insurance will cover this alternative scan for those who are claustrophobic.
There are certain individuals for which this test is not suitable. These include patients with medical implants such as pacemakers. This is because any type of metal in or on one's body can interfere with the scanning procedure and skew the results. Such scans are contraindicated for pregnant women as well. Patients who are sent to Lakewood MRI facilities will likely receive a more specific diagnosis than would be available if other, less sophisticated tests were used. For this reason, many doctors and patients avail themselves of the benefits provided by magnetic resonance imaging technology.
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