MRI Basics

MRI Basics

MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. It is a painless diagnostic test that uses a magnetic field

and radio wave energy to create high-resolution images of structures inside the body that help

diagnose a variety of conditions. Unlike some other diagnost imaging tests, MRI does not use

radiation. MRI provides different information about structures in the body than can be seen using X-

ray, ultrasound or CT.

Contraindications for undergoing an MRI scan for extremity patients include:

Patients who are pregnant or there is a possibility of pregancy cannot have an MRI scan

Patients who have a metallic foreign body in or around their eye, or who have aneurysm clips in

their brain cannot have an MRI scan

Patients who have had metallic devices implanted (such as screws, pins, rods) can have an MRI

but the devices must be in place for more than 6 weeks.

MRI Facts

In general, MRI creates pictures that show the difference between healthy and unhealthy tissue.

While researching the analytical properties of magnetic resonance, Raymond Damadian created the world's first magnetic resonance imaging machine in 1972.

In 1986, the founders of Extremity MRI Express, opened the first MRI center in the state of Michigan. Raymond Damadian, the inventor of MRI, partnered with them in this endeavor.