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| Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) |
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MRI is a non-invasive technique for looking inside
the body in a unique and powerful way that does not use
ionizing radiation. MRI takes advantage of the fact that the
water molecules in the body behave like small compasses when
placed in a strong magnetic field. The powerful magnet in
the scanner temporarily reorients these molecules in the
area of the body being studied. Radio waves are then
directed at that area, and as the molecules return to their
original orientation, they emit radio waves of their own
that are recorded by a computer. Because molecules in
different parts of the body return to their original
positions at different speeds, the computer is able to use
this data to "see" them as different structures. In some
cases, the patient is given an intravenous injection that
improves contrast and makes it easier to distinguish
different tissues.
The data that is recorded during these scans is interpreted
by a sophisticated computer program to produce a series of
images. This series of images represents very thin “slices”
of the body. Four Seasons Animal Hospital has installed a
state-of-the-art Hitachi Airis II MRI to ensure images of the highest quality.
The average MRI scan takes less than an hour. Patients are under
anesthesia so they remain motionless and are free from any
anxiety or discomfort. During anaesthesia, our patients are
closely monitored to ensure safety.
Click here for more information about monitoring.
For more information about MRI, ask your veterinarian or
visit these links:
US Food & Drug Administration
US National Library of Medicine/National Institutes of
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