Mri what does it stand for

The tumor may contain cysts. It can affect people of all ages, but it is more common in children…. A positron emission tomography, also known as a PET scan, produces 3-D color images of the processes within the human body. PET scans are often used…. An ultrasound scan uses high-frequency sound waves to create an image of the inside of the body. It is safe to use during pregnancy and is also a…. What to know about MRI scans. Medically reviewed by Judith Marcin, M.

What is an MRI scan? Share on Pinterest MRI scans can produce a detailed image. Share on Pinterest A person can listen to music in headphones to mask the loud and sometimes alarming sound of the MRI machine.

During an MRI scan. After an MRI scan. Side effects. Share on Pinterest MRI scans work by rearranging water molecules in the body with magnets. Latest news Adolescent depression: Could school screening help? Exposure to air pollutants may amplify risk for depression in healthy individuals. Related Coverage. What is the difference between a cyst and a tumor? Medically reviewed by Suzanne Falck, MD. Medically reviewed by Seunggu Han, MD. What is ependymoma?

What is a PET scan, and are there risks? How do ultrasound scans work? These coils send and receive radio waves, producing signals that are detected by the machine. The electric current does not come into contact with the patient. A computer processes the signals and creates a series of images, each of which shows a thin slice of the body.

The radiologist can study these images from different angles. MRI is often able to tell the difference between diseased tissue and normal tissue better than x-ray, CT, and ultrasound. The technologist will position you on the moveable exam table. They may use straps and bolsters to help you stay still and maintain your position. The technologist may place devices that contain coils capable of sending and receiving radio waves around or next to the area of the body under examination. MRI exams generally include multiple runs sequences , some of which may last several minutes.

Each run will create a different set of noises. If your exam uses a contrast material, a doctor, nurse, or technologist will insert an intravenous catheter IV line into a vein in your hand or arm. They will use this IV to inject the contrast material. You will be placed into the magnet of the MRI unit. The technologist will perform the exam while working at a computer outside of the room. You will be able to talk to the technologist via an intercom.

If your exam uses a contrast material, the technologist will inject it into the intravenous line IV after an initial series of scans. They will take more images during or following the injection. When the exam is complete, the technologist may ask you to wait while the radiologist checks the images in case more are needed. The technologist will remove your IV line after the exam is over and place a small dressing over the insertion site.

Depending on the type of exam and the equipment used, the entire exam is usually completed in 30 to 50 minutes. Most MRI exams are painless. However, some patients find it uncomfortable to remain still. Others may feel closed-in claustrophobic while in the MRI scanner. The scanner can be noisy. It is normal for the area of your body being imaged to feel slightly warm. If it bothers you, tell the radiologist or technologist. It is important that you remain perfectly still while the images are being taken.

This is typically only a few seconds to a few minutes at a time. You will know when images are being recorded because you will hear and feel loud tapping or thumping sounds.

The coils that generate the radio waves make these sounds when they are activated. You will be provided with earplugs or headphones to reduce the noise made by the scanner. You may be able to relax between imaging sequences. However, you will need to keep the same position as much as possible without moving.

You will usually be alone in the exam room. However, the technologist will be able to see, hear, and speak with you at all times using a two-way intercom. Many facilities allow a friend or parent to stay in the room if they have also been screened for safety. Children will be given appropriately sized earplugs or headphones during the exam.

Music may be played through the headphones to help pass the time. MRI scanners are air-conditioned and well-lit. In some cases, IV injection of contrast material may be given before the images are obtained. The IV needle may cause you some discomfort and you may experience some bruising. There is also a very small chance of skin irritation at the site of the IV tube insertion. Some patients may have a temporary metallic taste in their mouth after the contrast injection.

If you do not require sedation, no recovery period is necessary. You may resume your usual activities and normal diet immediately after the exam. On very rare occasions, a few patients experience side effects from the contrast material. These may include nausea, headache, and pain at the site of injection.

It is very rare that patients experience hives, itchy eyes, or other allergic reactions to the contrast material. If you have allergic symptoms, tell the technologist. A radiologist or other doctor will be available for immediate assistance.

A radiologist, a doctor trained to supervise and interpret radiology exams, will analyze the images. The radiologist will send a signed report to your primary care or referring physician, who will share the results with you. You may need a follow-up exam.

If so, your doctor will explain why. Sometimes a follow-up exam further evaluates a potential issue with more views or a special imaging technique. Short bursts of radio waves are then sent to certain areas of the body, knocking the protons out of alignment. When the radio waves are turned off, the protons realign. This sends out radio signals, which are picked up by receivers.

They also help to distinguish between the various types of tissue in the body, because the protons in different types of tissue realign at different speeds and produce distinct signals. In the same way that millions of pixels on a computer screen can create complex pictures, the signals from the millions of protons in the body are combined to create a detailed image of the inside of the body. An MRI scan is a painless and safe procedure.

You may find it uncomfortable if you have claustrophobia , but most people are able to manage it with support from the radiographer. Extensive research has been carried out into whether the magnetic fields and radio waves used during MRI scans could pose a risk to the human body. Director's Message. Budget Proposal. Stories of Cancer Research.

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