Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a type of radiology
examination that uses a powerful magnetic field and radio waves
to create detailed images of structures in the body. MRI is
commonly used for evaluation of the brain and spine, the solid
abdominal organs and the joints. MRI is particularly helpful in
the diagnosis of acute stroke, for identification of disc
herniation and nerve impingement in the spine, for
characterization of certain tumors and for evaluation of sports
related injuries. MRI examinations typically last 30 to 60
minutes and require the patient to lie flat within a long tube
within the magnetic field. In select cases, a special dye called
gadolinium is injected intravenously. Unlike some other
radiology examinations, MRI does not expose patients to ionizing
radiation. However, due to the strength of the magnetic field,
patients are questioned about electronic medical devices or
prostheses that might be unsafe or interfere with the
examination. Texas Radiology Associates has Board Certified