Magnetic resonance imaging, commonly referred to as MRI, is a non-invasive imaging technique used to diagnose and treat various medical conditions. An MRI scan doesn’t involve radiation and instead uses a magnetic field and radio waves to generate detailed images of the body. As the radio waves circulate throughout the body, images appear on a computer screen, giving radiologists a way to clearly and accurately analyze the differences between healthy and diseased soft tissues and bones.
MRIs can reveal many serious health issues at their earliest stages to provide patients with the most effective treatment options. At Raleigh Neurological Clinic, we utilize quality MRI services so we can uncover a diagnosis as early as possible and begin treatment.
What Can Be Diagnosed by an MRI Scan?
An MRI can look at the brain, chest, blood vessels, abdomen and pelvis, bones, joints, lungs, liver, spine, and other areas of the body. An MRI can help diagnose a wide array of medical conditions and diseases that include:
- Spinal cord and brain abnormalities
- Sports injuries
- Cysts and tumors
- Gastrointestinal tract conditions
- Female pelvic problems
- Certain types of heart problems
- Liver disease
- Uterine abnormalities in women
- Prostate problems
- Certain ear, nose, and throat conditions
What Can I Expect During an MRI Scan?
During your procedure, you will be asked to lie still on an MRI table. Throughout the exam, the MRI machine will take views of your body from different angles. While the table may move at times, you will remain still. Conversations with the MRI technologist during the exam usually occur through an intercom system and the procedure is virtually painless. An MRI scan takes approximately 45 minutes to an hour to complete.