Closed MRI machine:
A MRI machine is a sophisticated medical imaging device. Let us discuss it in detail:
| Closed MRI Machine | Description |
| Full form | Closed Magnetic resonance imaging machine |
| Year of discovery | Discovered in the 1970s |
| Discovered by | Dr. Raymond Damadian and Paul Lauterbur |
| Principle | This procedure utilizes strong magnetic fields and radiofrequency waves to create detailed images of the body’s internal structures |
| Procedure Time | Can vary based on the type of scan and body area involve. Time typically ranges from 15 minutes to an hour or more. |
| Contrast Agents | Sometimes contrast agents may be used to enhance the image contrast and visibility of specific tissues or conditions |
| When does closed MRI machine is used | It is used for diagnosing and monitoring a wide range of medical conditions such as neurological, musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, and oncological disorders |
| Enclosed Design | Features a cylindrical or tunnel-like structure with a bore where the patient lies during the procedure. |
| Structural components
|
· Magnet: Houses a superconducting magnet that generates the strong magnetic field necessary for imaging.
· Gradient Coils: These coils produce gradient fields, enabling the creation of detailed 3D images and differentiation between tissues. · Radiofrequency Coils: Placed around the area being imaged, these coils emit and receive radiofrequency waves to interact with the body’s hydrogen nuclei (protons). · Patient Table: The table on which the patient lies can be moved into the bore for precise positioning during scanning. · Operator Console: The MRI technologist operates the machine from a control room, monitoring the procedure and adjusting parameters. |
| Patient Comfort | The enclosed design can provide a sense of security, but may be challenging for individuals with claustrophobia |
| Patient Preparation | Requires patients to remove metal objects and inform the technologist about medical implants or conditions. |
| Image Quality | It provides high-resolution images with exceptional clarity, thus revealing detailed anatomy and pathology. |
| Advantages | This machine offers excellent image quality that can differentiate between soft tissues, blood vessels, nerves and organs. It is versatile for various applications. |
| Disadvantages | May induce anxiety in claustrophobic patients. It may also be uncomfortable for patients with larger body sizes. |
| Safety Considerations | Magnetic field poses risks for patients with certain medical implants (e.g., pacemakers) and potential for hearing damage due to loud noises during scans. |
| Technologist’s Role | Skilled MRI technologists operate the machine for ensuring patient safety and image quality. |
| Research and Advances | Ongoing advancements improve the image acquisition speed, patient comfort and imaging techniques. |