| The MRI scanner was developed after many years of | | | | An MRI scan is different than other forms of imaging, |
| research. In 1923, American Paul C Lauterbur and | | | | such as an X-ray or CT scan. X-rays and CT scans |
| Britain Sir Peter Mansfield were awarded the Nobel | | | | use radiation to produce images of bone and tissue. |
| Prize in Physiology following their discoveries involving | | | | The MRI scan is more sensitive, of higher quality, and |
| magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). The MRI scanner | | | | most importantly, the MRI scan does not expose the |
| was put into public use in the 1980s. The scanner was | | | | human body to dangerous radiation. |
| once considered an extraordinarily new discovery. | | | | Over the years, MRI scanners have continued to |
| Today, it is a common procedure. The following will | | | | develop and improve the quality of the image and |
| explain the construction and use of the MRI scanner in | | | | reduce possible danger to the patient. For many |
| diagnosing diseases. | | | | people it is difficult to submit to an MRI scan. |
| An MRI scanner is a large magnet encased by a large | | | | Claustrophobia and the inability to stay still are |
| cylinder or tube. Using magnetic resonance and radio | | | | problems that have kept people from receiving this |
| frequencies the protons of hydrogen atoms in the | | | | radiation free procedure. In recent years, scientists |
| body are aligned as they spin in the body, thereby | | | | have developed an open MRI scanning unit. This new |
| producing a signal that is seen by a receiver and then | | | | type of MRI scanner is constructed almost entirely of |
| sent to a computer for processing. Once the images | | | | plastic. The scanner is open on three sides, thereby |
| are received, a computer is able to capture the | | | | reducing possible claustrophobia and feelings of |
| images and make it possible to see bone and tissue in | | | | anxiety. The plastic construction reduces interference |
| a much more clear and distinct image than other forms | | | | and enhances the reliability of the MRI results. This new |
| of scanning. The results of the scan are then sent to a | | | | kind of MRI scanner has become one of the major |
| physician for diagnosis. | | | | diagnostic tools in use by physicians worldwide. |