Magnetic resonance imaging - or MRI for short - is one of the imaging procedures used in radiology. It is used for the precise imaging of soft tissue or organs. MRI provides precise cross-sectional images in high resolution, which the specialist can use to assess structures and functions.
Here you will find further information as well as selected MRI specialists and radiology centers.
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is an imaging procedure. In contrast to X-ray procedures, it does not involve any radiation exposure. An MRI machine builds up a strong magnetic field that influences the atoms of soft tissue and makes them visible.
An MRI can not only visualize bones, but also
can be visualized.
In many cases, it is therefore superior to X-rays or sonography (ultrasound).
The examination is based on a physical principle. Atoms with an odd number of protons or neutrons have the property of rotating around themselves(spin), which gives them a magnetic function. Hydrogen atoms in particular prove to be good antipoles.
For this reason, areas with a lot of water can be imaged particularly well in an MRI scan.
For the examination, the patient must enter a large, tube-like device.
A patient is pushed into an MRI machine © Nejron Photo | AdobeStock
How deep the patient is pushed into the tube depends on the region to be examined. If, for example, the ankle is being examined, the majority of the body remains outside the tube. For examinations of the
the patient must be pushed further into the tube.
As the approximately 30-minute examination is very loud, ear protectors are put on beforehand. The patient is also given an emergency switch. Many people do not feel comfortable in the narrow tube. If the claustrophobia gets too bad, the staff can be alerted by pressing the emergency button.
Incidentally, caution is advised with
as these can become hot or damaged.
The patient must therefore complete an extensive questionnaire before the examination. The magnetic field itself cannot be felt by the patient.
As soon as certain areas of the body need to be visualized, X-rays or ultrasound are no longer sufficient. Not least in sport, MRI is usually used to assess the full extent of an injury.
Ligaments, tendons and muscles cannot be visualized on an X-ray. An MRI can do this and therefore makes the doctors' work easier. But an MRI also provides valuable services outside of sport.
Regardless of whether it is
tumors - an MRI scanner provides the doctor with rapid findings. To make the areas even more visible, a contrast agent can be administered before the examination.
The patient can wait a few minutes after the examination and is then asked to talk to the radiologist. There they will be informed about the results. The radiologist will send the findings to the referring doctor.
No MRI scan can be ordered without a referral. The referring doctor is also the first point of contact when it comes to further treatment. The radiologist is only responsible for carrying out the examination and preparing the findings.
The following areas can be examined by MRI:
It should be noted that the waiting time for an MRI appointment can be very long. Waiting times of at least a week are the order of the day.
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