The full name of MRI is Magnetic Resonance Imaging.
MRI is a medical imaging technique used in radiology to form pictures of the anatomy and the physiological processes of the body. MRI scanners use strong magnetic fields, magnetic field gradients, and radio waves to generate images of the organs in the body. MRI does not involve X-rays or the use of ionizing radiation, which is a difference from CT or CAT scans.
MRI is widely used for medical diagnosis, staging of disease, and for follow-up without exposing the patient to ionizing radiation. MRI can be used to create images of almost every part of the body, including the brain, spinal cord, bones, joints, breasts, heart, and blood vessels.
Here's a breakdown of what each word in "Magnetic Resonance Imaging" means:
- Magnetic: This refers to the strong magnetic field used in the scanner.
- Resonance: This describes the phenomenon that occurs when radio waves of a specific frequency are applied, causing hydrogen atoms in the body to emit signals.
- Imaging: This indicates that the process creates visual representations of the internal structures of the body.
