How much do you know about the MRI program? MRI stands for Magnetic Resonance Imaging. The MRI program is a non-invasive imaging technique which combines radio frequencies, a large magnet and a computer in order to generate images of internal organs of the body. The MRI program does not involve x-ray radiation or any kind of surgery. This medical technology was developed by using the principles of nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR). The latter was discovered in 1946 by Edward Purcell and Felix Bloch. Firstly, NMR was used for physical and chemical analysis. In 1973, magnetic resonance imaging was demonstrated by using a back projection technique. The demonstration was realized by Paul Lauterbur.
The first entire body MRI scanner came up in 1977, being made by Raymond Damadian. In 1980, Edelstein acquired a single image in about 5 minutes by using Ernst's technique. In 1986, the time was reduced to about 5 seconds. The MRI program involves using a large machine shaped like a tube. It runs through the magnet from front to end. The respective magnet provides the creation of a strong magnetic field around the human body. And it sends pulses of radio waves from the scanner. These radio waves force the nuclei of hydrogen atoms move from their normal position. As they realign back into the original position, the nuclei send out radio waves as well. The computer or the scanner identifies and analyzes the signals, converting them into images. These images are the entire product of the MRI program and they are very useful in health care. |
