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        Medical Imaging

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)

                        
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          Benefits and Risks
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          What Patients Should Know Before Having an MRI Exam
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          Medical Imaging
          MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)Medical Imaging MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
  	
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    PrintMagnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging procedure for making images of the internal structures of the body. MRI scanners use strong magnetic fields and radio waves (radiofrequency energy) to make images. The signal in an MR image comes mainly from the protons in fat and water molecules in the body.

During an MRI exam, an electric current is passed through coiled wires to create a temporary magnetic field in a patient’s body. Radio waves are sent from and received by a transmitter/receiver in the machine, and these signals are used to make digital images of the scanned area of the body. A typical MRI scan last from 20 - 90 minutes, depending on the part of the body being imaged.

For some MRI exams, intravenous (IV) drugs, such as gadolinium-based contrast agents (GBCAs) are used to change the contrast of the MR image. Gadolinium-based contrast agents are rare earth metals that are usually given through an IV in the arm.

Related Information

MHRA Safety Guidelines for Magnetic Resonance Imaging Equipment in Clinical Use (March 2015)
	FDA/CDER: Information on Gadolinium-Based Contrast Agents
	Safety Concerns with Implantable Infusion Pumps in the Magnetic Resonance (MR) Environment: FDA Safety Communication

                                                                                  Content current as of:
      08/29/2018MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)                
                          

                        Uses
          Benefits and Risks
          The FDA's Role
          What Patients Should Know Before Having an MRI Exam
          Information for Professionals
          MRI Safety Posters
          MRI Information for Industry
          Reporting Problems to FDA
 
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