Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging. An MRI is a test that produces images, or pictures, of the human body using:
- A large magnet
- Radio waves
- A computer
The MRI scanner identifies atoms in your body and uses them to create an image of your internal organs, blood vessels, and tissue, like the one on the right. MRI is also capable of looking at how many major organs "function," such as the brain and heart. MRI can inherently look at the body with 3-D images.
Unlike some other tests, an MRI does not use radiation to produce these images. MRI scans are considered very safe. Risks are low and complications rarely occur.
An MRI creates images that provide your doctor with important information about your body. When used in combination with other tests, an MRI scan can help your doctor diagnose —or rule out— certain conditions in your:
- Chest
- Abdomen & Pelvis
- Heart
- Brain
- Back
- Blood Vessels
- Spine
Breast MRI
"American Cancer Society Recommends Breast MRI"
The American Cancer Society has updated its guidelines for breast cancer screening and is now recommending that for women who are at an extraordinarily high risk of developing breast cancer in their lifetime, that in addition to annual mammography, they also have an annual 
MRI performed of both breasts. Women considered to be at extraordinarily high risk would be women who are known carriers of the two breast cancer mutations that are easily testable, which are the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. And women who are first-degree relatives of someone with one of those gene abnormalities, but have not yet been tested. Or a woman with a significant family history, who by a breast-cancer risk model, would have a lifetime risk of somewhere between 20 and 25 percent. The American Cancer Society recommends that women in these groups still receive a mammogram because the complement of the mammogram and a breast MRI actually provides the highest pickup rate of early breast cancers. NJIR is now offering Breast MRI.
New recommendations call for MRI in breast cancer
ACS Advises MRIs for Some at High Risk of Breast Cancer
Frequently Asked Questions
What Happens During an MRI?
The staff at the imaging center will help you prepare for the scan, then take you to a specially shielded room where you will be asked to lie on a table. This table slides into the MRI system, where the MRI scan will take place. During the scan you will not feel the magnets or the radio waves, and the procedure itself will not cause pain.
The imaging center staff will observe you throughout the scan and may communicate with you through an intercom located inside the tube. During the procedure you will hear the equipment making thumping sounds. You will need to remain as still as you can because moving even a little while the scan is in progress may blur or distort your images.
How Long Will the MRI Take?
MRI procedures may take between 15-45 minutes, depending on the area scanned and the equipment used. More recent MRI equipment developed by Siemens has been specially designed to complete the exam in less time than traditional MRI scanners. Find out how Siemens' MRI technology allows faster exams and excellent image quality.
Information for Claustrophobic Patients
Because MRI tubes can be narrow, some people may become anxious or claustrophobic during the procedure. If you sometimes feel anxious in small places, be sure to tell the staff when you schedule your appointment. More open equipment (known as “open MRI” or “open bore MRI”) may be available—especially if the facility carries the latest Siemens MRI technology, which has been designed to help reduce the risk of claustrophobia. In addition, there has been technology released that will minimize the noise to provide a more pleasant atmosphere for the patient. Also, televisions are available with some equipment to help ease anxiety. Read how Siemens has designed MRI equipment that maximizes comfort and helps minimize claustrophobia.
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