How Does an MRI System Produce a Diagnostic Image?

Most patients who have been scanned by an MRI system are not even sure how the machine produces the diagnostic image. Even though MRIs have been around for decades, patients assume today’s MRI systems are still just as clunky, uncomfortable, and outdated. Windsor Imaging is prepared to explain how MRI systems produce diagnostic images and the types of top-of-the-line scanners available today. 

What is an MRI?

An MRI, or magnetic resonance image, is created by a powerful magnetic field, radiofrequency pulses, and a computer. An MRI scan can capture a clear, diagnostic image of a patient’s organs, soft tissue, bone, and internal structure. Through a robust magnetic field and radio waves, MRI scans completely avoid the use of radiation to yield a diagnostic image.

How does an MRI system produce a diagnostic image?

To capture an image, the MRI system uses and sends magnetic and radiofrequency waves into the patient’s body. The energy emitted by the atoms in the magnetic field sends a signal to a computer. Then, the computer uses mathematical formulas to convert the signal to an image. Patients will need to lie still on a table that slides into a machine for about 20 minutes for spine studies and about 30 minutes for extremities, brain, and all other types of studies. Usually, the space where the table slides in is narrow and compact. Thankfully, new technology has allowed MRI machines to be open, facilitating a more comfortable patient experience. 

The MRI Systems at Windsor Imaging Locations 

Since 2003, Windsor Imaging has been providing top-of-the-line MRI services to South Florida residents. The diagnostic imaging team operates three facilities, including those at Delray Beach, Fort Lauderdale, and Fort Pierce, to serve each patient’s unique MRI needs.

Delray Beach: Windsor Imaging’s Delray Beach center is home to the Siemens MAGNETOM Espree 1.5T MRI, the first open-bore MRI scanner on the market. Physicians are able to perform an exam with a patient’s head completely outside the magnet. Essentially, the Siemens MAGNETOM Espree allows the patient to feel relaxed during his or her examination. This MRI can perform advanced clinical applications and comes equipped with the Tim Technology (Total Imaging Matrix) that delivers high-quality imaging and reduced exam times.

Fort Lauderdale: Windsor Imaging’s Fort Lauderdale location features the Hitachi Oasis 1.2T, a high-strength open magnet MRI system which is ACR-accredited as a 1.5T system. The system’s unique architecture uses advanced magnet design, Zenith RF Technology, and robust clinical capabilities to achieve exceptional diagnostic results. Best of all, patients can rest assured knowing their MRI scans will be comfortable, quick, and seamless.

Fort Pierce: Patients visiting Windsor Imaging’s Fort Pierce location can be scanned using the Hitachi 0.7T Altaire Open MRI or the GE MRI 1.5 Tesla. Windsor Imaging is proud to be the only diagnostic center in St. Lucie County with two MRI machines, as its team performs both open MRI exams and high-field MRI exams at the same location. As always, patients can expect quality care before, during, and after an MRI at the Windsor Imaging Fort Pierce office.

Trust Windsor Imaging to guide you through your next MRI scan. Each of Windsor Imaging’s three locations specializes in conducting safe and seamless MRI examinations. Alas, Windsor Imaging can provide patients with the high-quality diagnostic imaging services they need. To schedule an appointment at one of the three facilities, contact Windsor Imaging today.