magnetic resonance imaging
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Diagnostic scanning system based on the principles of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). MRI yields finely detailed three-dimensional images of structures within the body without exposing the patient to harmful radiation. The technique is invaluable for imaging the soft tissues of the body, in particular the brain and the spinal cord.
Claimed as the biggest breakthrough in diagnostic imaging since the discovery of X-rays, MRI is a noninvasive technique based on a magnet that is many thousands of times stronger than the Earth's magnetic field. It causes nuclei within the atoms of the body to align themselves in one direction. When a brief radio pulse is beamed at the body the nuclei spin, emitting weak radio signals as they realign themselves to the magnet. These signals, which are characteristic for each type of tissue, are converted electronically into images on a viewing screen.
Also developed around magnetic technology, magnetic resonance spectroscopy (MRS) is a technique for investigating conditions in which there is a disturbance of the body's energy metabolism, including ischaemia and toxic damage due to drugs or other chemicals. MRS is also of value in diagnosing some cancers.
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