What is an MRI scan?
An MRI scan is a safe, painless diagnostic test that produces detailed images of your internal organs. Doctors often use it to help diagnose or rule out medical conditions and to guide treatment plans.
Unlike a CT scan or an X-ray, an MRI scan doesn’t use radiation. Instead, its powerful magnets and radio waves create precise images of your organs, soft tissues (such as your muscles and blood vessels) and bones. These images help doctors detect abnormalities and monitor how well treatments are working.
MRIs can identify various conditions, including cancer, infections, brain and spinal problems, heart disease and bone injuries or diseases. Doctors can also use it to monitor long-term conditions, such as Alzheimer’s disease.
Sometimes a contrast dye is used to highlight specific tissues or blood vessels, making the images sharper. It’s a harmless liquid which is injected into a vein and is passed naturally in your urine soon after the scan.