One of the most popular modern diagnostic devices is magnetic resonance imaging, which uses magnetic vibrations to detect changes in the body. Unlike computed tomography, MRI does not emit radiation and is absolutely safe. However, because the diagnosis involves magnetic waves, people who wear metal objects or who have a pacemaker or other metal implant in their body cannot pass the test.
MRI can mainly see soft areas, such as muscles, nerve fibers, the brain, spinal cord, and intervertebral discs, as well as joints. But it may not be able to determine the amount of calcium in the bones. Therefore, computed tomography or X-ray examination is recommended for accurate bone examination.
MRI is important in the early stages of degenerative (arthrosis) and inflammatory (arthritis) of the joints, as well as in the detection of various injuries to the joint surface, small tears in the joints, muscles and ligaments. Typically, an MRI of the joints is performed directly before the operation and to monitor the patient's postoperative condition.
Compared to the X-ray method of examination, MRI of the joints is much more accurate, even higher than ultrasound diagnosis. MRI provides a clearer picture of the pathology of the damaged tissue. It is known that joint injuries are the most common type of injury, accounting for 70%. Especially large joints are often injured. In modern diagnosis, only MRI can reliably determine the extent to which internal and external structures have been injured in patients who have complained of large joint injuries.
If the patient is pregnant, she should tell the doctor who is examining her. In fact, MRI is safer than computed tomography and radiography because it does not use ionizing radiation (X-rays). However, some MRIs may occur after the MRI. Therefore, it is best not to have an MRI in the first trimester of pregnancy. In the following months, pregnant women can easily undergo such examinations.
The MRI scan is painless. The patient hardly feels the magnetic field and radio waves. Unpleasant noises heard during the inspection are not harmful to the ears. The patient should be able to breathe freely and not move his head or body during the examination. Otherwise, excessive behavior can distort the image.
Some people get annoyed when they go through a CT scan. At this time, the patient is able to talk to the MRI laboratory assistant through a microphone. MRI scans take about ten to twenty minutes.
