Over the last few decades, MRI scans have become a major part of diagnostic medicine. Some may not understand, however, what an MRI is and how it can help diagnose issues with an individual's heath.
An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a radiology scan that uses high-powered magnets, computers and radio waves to produce images of an individual's internal systems. The unit is a tube surrounded by a magnet. An MRI scan can provide an extremely accurate tool in the arsenal of diagnostic medicine. For example, an MRI of the brain can locate aneurysms, strokes and tumors. An MRI of the spine can detect issues with discs or spine inflammation. When an MRI of the heart is conducted, it can locate tears and issues with the aorta.
An MRI is a painless and relatively quick procedure. The time for the scan can go anywhere from a few minutes to half an hour, on average. An MRI scan can also avoid radiation exposure the patient will have when an X-ray is done. There are, however, a few risks that come with an MRI that the patient should be made aware of prior to the scan. If the patient has any metal in their body, such as surgical pins, artificial joints or pacemakers, they are not a candidate for an MRI. This is due to the high-power magnet that is used during the test. As a result, another form of diagnostic test should be used to help determine the patient's medical issue.
A mobile MRI does everything as previously described, except it has the option of moving from place to place. A standard MRI is a fixed piece of equipment that is unable to move based on the needs of the hospital or imaging center. A mobile MRI can go anywhere it is needed without issue. This is extremely helpful if the standard MRI in a hospital or imaging center is down for maintenance or repair.
Many wonder how a mobile MRI is moved from place to place, if it is safe and will provide the same accurate results as a fixed MRI. A mobile MRI is housed inside a dedicated trailer that is customized to accommodate both the MRI unit and the patient comfortably. The trailer is adapted so the high-powered magnet does not affect equipment or people nearby the outside of the mobile MRI, while still providing the necessary high-quality images required so the doctor can determine a proper diagnosis for the patient's medical issue.
