MRI Diagnostic Test 101

An MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) is a testing procedure that makes detailed images of the inside of our bodies without use of radiation.Instead, an MRI uses radio waves and a powerful magnet linked to a computer.

An MRI makes better images of organs and soft tissue than other scanning techniques, such as computed tomography (CT) or x-ray. MRI is especially useful for imaging the brain, the spine, the soft tissue of joints, and the inside of bones.  MRI images can show the difference between normal and diseased tissue.

An MRI can take 30 to 40 minutes. 

An MRI is also called Nuclear magnetic resonance imaging (NMRI)

For additional information, see:

• What Happens During An MRI Test
• Preparation For An MRI Test 
• Tips For When You Are In An MRI Machine

NOTE: If you are claustrophobic (afraid of confined spaces): 

• Keep in mind that nothing holds you in an MRI machine. If you start to feel paniced, you can ask the technician to take you out of the machine or you can wiggle out on your own.  
• Before entering the MRI machine, you can ask for an anti-anxiety drug. If you get an anti-anxiety drug, the testing facility will likely require that you have someone pick you up after the test is over.

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