MRI (conventional)

http://www.umediagnostics.com/diagnostic-scans/mri-conventional/

MRI magnetic resonance imaging is a safe, non-invasive diagnostic imaging procedure. MRI uses radio waves, a magnet and computer software to obtain two- and three-dimensional (3D) images of the inside of the body.

These images are used for detecting and treating various diseases in their early stages, such as osteoarthritis, stroke and cancer. MRI can detect disease in structures throughout the body including the brain, eyes, heart, breast, neck, shoulders, spine, heart, liver, kidney, spleen, pancreas, and the pelvis and hips. MRI can also provide amazing images of joints in the shoulder, wrist, ankle and foot.

At UME Diagnostics we are able to offer a complete range of MRI technology, this includes conventional high-field HDx1.5 T MRI, Open MRI and the most advanced 3T MRI.

How does MRI work?

When the patient is inside the MRI unit’s magnetic field, tiny particles in the body called protons are forced to line up and spin in the same direction. While the protons are aligned, radio waves are sent into the magnetic field. These signals disturb the protons and make them spin in different directions. When the signal is stopped, the protons line up again and release energy. This energy is measured by the surface coils that are positioned around the area of the body being studied. When turned on, the coils are like special antennae that receive the energy. Diseased tissue emits response signals that vary dramatically from those of normal tissue. The knocking or thumping heard inside the magnet is the sound of the coils being turned on and off as they measure the energy from the disturbed protons. The computer then takes these measurements from the coils and constructs cross-sectional and 3D images of the body’s structures.

3T MRI

3T is the highest field MRI imaging available to patients. It offers advanced imaging applications and capabilities beyond that of, and complementary to, conventional MRI imaging carried out at 1.5T. The increased sensitivity and higher noise to signal ratio allows demonstration and evaluation of finer structures and vessels. Joint surfaces, cartilage, ligaments and muscles are also seen in greater detail. With 3T, it is possible to scan with below single millimetre slice thicknesses to evaluate smaller structures of certain nerves. This is of particular benefit when imaging the brain. Musculoskeletal imaging is achieved with far greater resolution and is therefore the MRI imaging modality of choice for many radiologists, for examinations such as cartilage mapping and evaluation and studies of smaller joints such as hands, feet, wrists and ankles. Superior imaging is also achieved for specialist diagnosis of gynaecological, rectal and prostatic conditions.

For information on how to book an appointment please see the booking and payment page, or contact your nearest centre.