Rigi10™ Malleable Penile Prosthesis
Also Known As
MRI, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance Imaging (historical term), NMR Imaging, Magnetic Resonance Tomography, MR Imaging, fMRI (functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging - specialized type)
Definition
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive medical imaging technique that utilizes powerful magnetic fields and computer-generated radio waves to create detailed three-dimensional images of the organs and tissues within the body.1 The technology works by exploiting the natural magnetic properties of hydrogen atoms found abundantly in water molecules throughout the body’s tissues.2 When placed within the strong magnetic field of an MRI machine, these hydrogen protons align with the field. A radiofrequency current is then pulsed through the patient, causing the protons to spin out of equilibrium. As they realign with the magnetic field after the radiofrequency is turned off, they release energy that is detected by specialized sensors.3 The time it takes for protons to realign and the amount of energy released varies depending on the tissue environment, allowing physicians to differentiate between various types of tissues based on these magnetic properties.4 MRI is widely used for disease detection, diagnosis, and treatment monitoring, providing exceptional soft tissue contrast without exposing patients to ionizing radiation.5
Clinical Context
Magnetic resonance imaging is employed across numerous medical specialties due to its exceptional ability to visualize soft tissues with high resolution and contrast.1 Unlike computed tomography (CT) or conventional X-rays, MRI does not use ionizing radiation, making it particularly valuable for patients requiring frequent imaging or those more vulnerable to radiation effects, such as pregnant women and children.3
MRI is the imaging modality of choice for neurological conditions, as it can differentiate between white and gray matter in the brain and detect subtle abnormalities such as demyelinating diseases, small tumors, and vascular malformations.2 It is extensively used in the diagnosis and monitoring of multiple sclerosis, brain tumors, stroke, and neurodegenerative disorders.4 Functional MRI (fMRI), a specialized application, measures blood flow changes in the brain to map areas activated during specific cognitive tasks, providing valuable insights for neurosurgical planning and neurological research.3
In musculoskeletal medicine, MRI excels at visualizing soft tissue structures including ligaments, tendons, cartilage, and muscles, making it invaluable for diagnosing sports injuries, degenerative joint conditions, and spinal disorders.4 For knee and shoulder injuries, MRI provides detailed visualization of meniscal tears, rotator cuff injuries, and ligament damage that might be undetectable with other imaging methods.3
Cardiovascular MRI enables assessment of cardiac structure, function, and blood flow, aiding in the diagnosis of congenital heart defects, cardiomyopathies, and vascular diseases.4 In oncology, MRI assists in tumor detection, characterization, staging, and treatment response monitoring across multiple organ systems.1
Patient selection for MRI considers several factors, including the clinical question being addressed, the need for superior soft tissue contrast, concerns about radiation exposure, and contraindications such as certain implanted medical devices or severe claustrophobia.5 The procedure typically takes 15-60 minutes depending on the body part being imaged and the specific protocols used.4