Magnetic resonance imaging, also referred to as MRI, is a scan used for the purpose of viewing the internal structures of the human body. It is somewhat similar to an x-ray or computed tomography, but ionizing radiation is not used. Rather, MRI is characterized by the use of powerful magnets and radio waves to capture images. The MRI Denver facilities provide is used for the purpose of diagnosing various illnesses and conditions.
The procedure itself is noninvasive, and regarded as safe. The technology behind this particular test dates back to 1946. However, it would be many decades before the scan was perfected and used on daily basis as it is in today's modern medical world.
As previously mentioned, the purpose of such scans is to identify abnormalities, diseases and potential problems within a person's body. Clear images are produced when the test is taken. These pictures are evaluated by various professionals in the health care field. Such scans can closely examine numerous parts of the body, including the brain, blood vessels, spine, joints, heart, abdomen and pelvic region.
Arguably, one of the greatest advantages associated with this technology is the fact that such scans are capable of discovering the presence of tumors at an earlier stage than would be possible with the traditional tests use previously. This is particularly true regarding brain pathology. Before the invention of magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, also referred to as a CAT scan, was generally utilized when a brain tumor was suspected. Unfortunately, however, certain kinds of tumors cannot be identified through computed tomography.
Another benefit of MRI scans is the fact that they are noninvasive. Many patients desire a diagnosis, but shy away from tests that involve uncomfortable or invasive procedures. The only preparation associated with MRI scans is fasting prior to the test. Patients are typically instructed not to eat or drink after midnight of the day preceding their scan. However, even fasting is not always necessary, but will depend on the disorder or illness for which the patient is being tested.
A patient should also be sure to inform the attending physician of any medical devices that are implanted in his or her body, such as a pacemaker. Most medical professionals also ask patients to remove jewelry or cosmetic products that could possibly contain traces of metal. This is because such items can potentially disrupt the magnetic equipment used during the scan.
During the test, the patient is instructed to lay down on a long table, which is then transported through a large tunnel-like machine. The process typically takes anywhere from 20 minutes to one hour depending on the area of the body being evaluated. There are also open machines for patients who are claustrophobic or who become sick in enclosed spaces.
When the scan is complete, images will be produced and evaluated by a radiologist or other health care professional. The results along with their interpretation are then sent to the patient's primary care physician or specialist, who will then inform the patient of the results. MRI Denver specialists prescribe can be highly beneficial regarding the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases and conditions.
The procedure itself is noninvasive, and regarded as safe. The technology behind this particular test dates back to 1946. However, it would be many decades before the scan was perfected and used on daily basis as it is in today's modern medical world.
As previously mentioned, the purpose of such scans is to identify abnormalities, diseases and potential problems within a person's body. Clear images are produced when the test is taken. These pictures are evaluated by various professionals in the health care field. Such scans can closely examine numerous parts of the body, including the brain, blood vessels, spine, joints, heart, abdomen and pelvic region.
Arguably, one of the greatest advantages associated with this technology is the fact that such scans are capable of discovering the presence of tumors at an earlier stage than would be possible with the traditional tests use previously. This is particularly true regarding brain pathology. Before the invention of magnetic resonance imaging, computed tomography, also referred to as a CAT scan, was generally utilized when a brain tumor was suspected. Unfortunately, however, certain kinds of tumors cannot be identified through computed tomography.
Another benefit of MRI scans is the fact that they are noninvasive. Many patients desire a diagnosis, but shy away from tests that involve uncomfortable or invasive procedures. The only preparation associated with MRI scans is fasting prior to the test. Patients are typically instructed not to eat or drink after midnight of the day preceding their scan. However, even fasting is not always necessary, but will depend on the disorder or illness for which the patient is being tested.
A patient should also be sure to inform the attending physician of any medical devices that are implanted in his or her body, such as a pacemaker. Most medical professionals also ask patients to remove jewelry or cosmetic products that could possibly contain traces of metal. This is because such items can potentially disrupt the magnetic equipment used during the scan.
During the test, the patient is instructed to lay down on a long table, which is then transported through a large tunnel-like machine. The process typically takes anywhere from 20 minutes to one hour depending on the area of the body being evaluated. There are also open machines for patients who are claustrophobic or who become sick in enclosed spaces.
When the scan is complete, images will be produced and evaluated by a radiologist or other health care professional. The results along with their interpretation are then sent to the patient's primary care physician or specialist, who will then inform the patient of the results. MRI Denver specialists prescribe can be highly beneficial regarding the diagnosis and treatment of various diseases and conditions.
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To learn more about MRI Denver residents can visit www.radiologyimagingdenver.com. At http://www.radiologyimagingdenver.com you will find info on many kinds of diagnostic procedures.
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