MRI
What is MRI?
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is one of the most technologically advanced diagnostic tools available. MRI uses a powerful magnet, low intensity radio frequency pulses and computer technology to create detailed images of the soft tissues, muscles, nerves and bones in your body.
In many instances, it replaces the need for X-rays, hospitalization and exploratory surgery. There are no known side effects of MRI and it uses no radiation.
How MRI scanners work
The main component of the MRI scanner is a magnet. This magnet causes your body's hydrogen atoms to align themselves in such a way as to receive radio signals from the magnetic resonance system.
When your body receives these signals, it reacts by sending its own radio signals back to the machine. It is this radio frequency transmitted by your body that is computer-processed and turned into highly detailed images.
High quality equipment
The scanners available to Oxford Clinic patients are of the highest specification available. There are two MRI scanners available:
- An 'open' MRI scanner (click here for more information on the Nuffield Orthopaedic Centre website, a downloadable PDF file containing more detail)
- A new 3 Tesla closed MRI scanner, installed December 2007 - the first scanner of its kind to be installed in an orthopaedic centre in the UK.
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