An MRI scan, which stands for magnetic resonance imaging, is a safe and painless way to take extremely detailed pictures of the interior of the body. Using a strong magnetic field along with radio waves, an MRI scan creates computer images of organs, tissues and other subtle structures.

An MRI is especially useful for cases where x-rays and CT scans are not detailed enough to capture images, such as a blood clot in the brain or a slipped disc in the spinal cord. It is also excellent at detecting cancerous tumors and other physical abnormalities.

Procedure information
An MRI scanner looks like a short tunnel surrounded by a giant magnet. Patients lie flat on a table which then slides into the scanner. A smaller magnet is placed behind or next to the area of the body to be examined and patients must remain perfectly still while each image is being taken. The table continues to slowly move through the scanner tunnel as different slices of the body are imaged.

The whole process can take from 30 to 60 minutes, depending on how many parts of the body need to be looked at. The noise inside the MRI can be quite loud, and a contrast material is sometimes injected into patients to highlight a particular section of the body during the scan. This dye is harmless and usually creates a warm fluid sensation. Patients who have trouble lying still for more than 30 minutes are given a mild sedative.

Recovery time
MRIs are quick and painless. Since they don’t use radiation, there is virtually no danger in taking a scan. Occasionally, patients have an allergic reaction to the contrast material, but this can be treated as it happens. There are no side effects from the MRI, so patients can resume their regular daily activities as soon as the test is finished. Those who take a sedative may need someone to drive them home, and pregnant women aren’t advised to take an MRI unless absolutely necessary.