Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): What To Think About

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What To Think About

• Sometimes your MRI test results may be different from the results of CT, ultrasound, or X-ray tests, because the MRI scan shows tissue differently.
• MRI is a safe test for looking at structures and organs inside the body. It costs more than other methods and may not be available in your area.
• Open MRI machines are now made so that the magnet does not completely surround you. But these machines may not be available in all medical centers. Open MRI is useful for people who are claustrophobic or obese.
• MRI can be used to check different parts of the body, such as the head, belly, breast, spine, shoulder, and knee. For more information, see the medical tests MRI of the Head, MRI of the Abdomen, MRI of the Breast, MRI of the Spine, MRI of the Shoulder, and MRI of the Knee.
• Magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA) is a special MRI method that studies blood vessels and blood flow. For more information, see the medical test Magnetic Resonance Angiogram (MRA).
• MRI spectroscopy is a special MRI method that identifies certain medical problems by looking for specific chemicals in body tissues.
• Contrast material that contains gadolinium may cause a serious skin problem (called nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy) in people with kidney failure. Before having an MRI scan, tell your doctor if you have serious kidney disease.

Last updated:	June 22, 2007
Author:	Maria G. Essig, MS, ELS
Reviewed By:	Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine, Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology
Editors:	Susan Van Houten, RN, BSN, MBA, Pat Truman, MATC