Using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), doctors can view the brain, spine, bones, joints, heart, circulatory system, and internal organs in a way that is not possible with other diagnostic equipment. MRI creates detailed images of soft tissue, muscle, nerves, bone, and blood vessels through the use of a powerful magnet, radio waves, and computer technology. This procedure assists doctors in quickly and accurately diagnosing conditions without surgery or radiation. A paramagnet or contrast agent may be given intravenously as part of an MRI examination. This helps to highlight certain structures. Certain conditions, such as pregnancy, various medical implants, or pacemakers should be discussed with your physician before undergoing an MRI examination.

High field MRI has been available for many years. The new systems combine short-bore, wide-magnet design, with high resolution and new technical advances, providing the radiologist and your doctor with the clearest, most detailed images of the body part being examined. The innovative wide-magnet design provides a sense of "openness" for the patient, which significantly decreases any claustrophobic feelings and allows the system to better accommodate larger or heavier patients. This high-speed technology also means faster imaging, so patients spend less time being tested. These state-of-the-art systems are available at Tristán Associates in Harrisburg at our Union Deposit and Linglestown Road offices, at our Hershey office, at our West Shore office in Camp Hill, and in Lewisburg at Susquehanna Valley Imaging. Click on Clinical Applications for a brief description of the role of MRI in imaging different organ systems within various parts of the body.