MRI: basics & technology
MRI: basics & technology
What MRI is, how magnetic resonance works and how it differs from X-ray or CT — in plain language.
Articles
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What is MRI (magnetic resonance imaging)?
MRI uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves — no ionising radiation like X-ray or CT.
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MRI vs CT: when is each modality used?
CT is fast and uses X-rays; MRI takes longer but often shows soft tissue better. The choice depends on the clinical question.
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Safety: can I have an MRI with tattoos or piercings?
Older tattoos with iron-based ink may heat up; piercings usually need to be removed. Tell the team beforehand.
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Glossary
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RF (radiofrequency)
Short radio pulses that make tissue protons resonate — the basis of the MRI signal; safe within clinical SAR limits.
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T1 vs T2 weighting
Two basic MRI contrast modes: T1 emphasises fat and anatomy; T2 emphasises fluid and inflammation. Radiologists combine sequences for diagno...
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DWI (diffusion-weighted imaging)
MRI sequence measuring water molecule movement, used in stroke and oncology to assess cell density.