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CHRYSTIA SLYWOTZKY, M.D. W HAT IS M AG NETIC R E SO N A N C E IM AGING? G E M AX M R! Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, is an ad vanced, state-of-the-art method which produces very clear pictures, or images, of the human body without the use of X-rays. MRI uses a large magnet, radio waves, antenna and a computer to produce these images. How does MRI work? The human body is made up of millions of atoms which are magnetic. When placed in a magnetic field, these atoms line up with the field, much like a compass points to the North Pole. Radio waves, tuned to a specific frequency, tip these tiny magnets away from the magnetic field. As they tip, they gain energy. When the radio waves are turned off, the atoms try to realign with the magnetic field, releasing the energy they gained as very weak radio signals. A powerful antenna picks up these signals and sends them to a computer, which performs millions of calcula tions to produce a black and white image for diagnosis. Because of the high strength of the magnetic field util ized during MRI scans, there are stringent housing re quirements for the scanner and its magnet so as not to disrupt surrounding structures. The average MRI scan takes 30-45 minutes. During this time, several dozen images may be obtained. These images assist the radiologist in making the best diagno sis possible and may even eliminate the need for biopsy or surgery. ARE THERE POSSIBLE RISKS ASSOCIATED WITH MRI? Extensive testing was done on MRI before it was approved for medical use. Studies of people who work around magnetic fields suggest that MRI is completely safe. The MRI exam poses no risk to the average patient if appropriate safety guidelines are followed. For exam ple, because of the strength of the magnetic field used during the examination, metallic items within the body may cause discomfort or injury to the patient when placed in the magnetic field by possibly migrating dur ing the examination. For personal safety, any patient with: — a pacemaker — a metal plate, pin or other metallic implant — aneurysm clips — an artificial heart valve — ever been a metal worker — an intrauterine device (IUD) — ever been wounded during military service should inform the doctor or technologist that these are present prior to undergoing an MRI examination. WHAT PARTS OF THE BODY MAY BE IMAGED WITH MRI? Nearly every part of the body may be studied with MRI. Organs within the chest and abdomen, such as the heart, liver, bladder and kidneys can easily be seen. MRI gives very detailed pictures of the brain and spine. MRI is also very sensitive to changes in cartilage and bone structure resulting from injury, disease or aging. The clear pictures obtained often provide information not available through other medical testing and may actu ally eliminate the need for exploratory surgery. Radiol ogists are continually expanding the role of MRI in diagnosing diseases throughout the body. Due to the joint efforts of the UNWLA and CCRF, a GE MAX MRI was delivered to the Kyyiv Trauma Center on June 23, 1994. This is an accomplishment that every member of our organization should take great pride in since it will serve to greatly improve the quality of medi cal care to the Ukrainian people. НАШЕ ЖИТТЯ”, ЛИПЕНЬ-СЕРПЕНЬ 1994 19
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