Diagnostic Procedures

Ultrasound is a procedure that uses high-frequency sound waves to view internal organs and produce images of the human body. The human ear cannot hear the sound waves used in an ultrasound. Ultrasound is: Noninvasive, which means it does not penetrate the skin or body openings, and Diagnostic, which means it is used to determine

Here are some reliable sources that can provide more information on MRI. An excellent review of the MRI procedure and the physics and mathematics that make it possible was written by Joseph P. Hornack, professor of chemistry and imaging science at the Rochester Institute of Technology. The entire text is available at: http://www.cis.rit.edu/htbooks/mri/inside.htm

Here are definitions of medical terms related to MRI. Echocardiogram: A method of obtaining an image of the heart structure by using ultrasound (inaudible, high-frequency, sound waves). The sound is reflected differently by each part of the heart. The result is a complex series of echoes that are recorded and analyzed. Electrocardiogram (ECG, or EKG): A record

Here is a summary of the important facts and information related to MRI. Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, is a painless diagnostic procedure that uses a powerful magnet and radio waves to produce high-quality, cross-sectional images of organs and body structures without the use of X-rays or other ionizing radiation. Because MRI does not involve

Here are some frequently asked questions related to MRI. Q: Are the “radio waves” used in MRI like regular radio waves? A: No. While the MRI does use a radio wave antenna to send signals to the body and receive signals back during the procedure, the “radio wave signals” are actually a changing magnetic field that

When you arrive at the hospital, clinic, or laboratory where the test is to take place, you are usually asked to fill out the MRI screening questionnaire (unless this has been done previously). You can wear regular clothing as long as it is free of metal (zippers, buttons, etc). You must remove all metal objects,

For an “ordinary” MRI, no special preparation is required, but leave any jewelry or other metal objects at home. Under certain conditions, specialized MRIs require dietary restrictions provided by the physician. These include: When the MRI requires injection or ingestion of a contrast agent (a dye used for image enhancement) When sedation or anesthesia is

Magnetic Resonance Imaging, or MRI, is a painless and safe diagnostic procedure that uses a powerful magnet and radio waves to produce detailed images of the body’s organs and structures, without the use of X-rays or other radiation. A computer converts signals from the MRI scan into extremely clear, cross-sectional images of the part of the body