Times have certainly changed when it comes to medical technology! An MRI (or magnetic resonance imaging) scan uses a combination of a powerful magnet and radio waves to produce images of various body parts. Over the years, MRI technology has become more and more advanced, allowing physicians to easily view high resolution, detailed images of structures within the body.

“MRI really just came onto the scene in 1982, and it’s changed dramatically over the years,” says Audrey Spielmann, a radiologist and HealthChoicesFirst.com partner. “The magnet strength has increased, and the resolution of the images has increased over that time.”

Advances in the MRI Procedure

Advanced MRI technology means more detailed images for physicians, allowing for quick, high accuracy results.

“Techniques such as the coils that we put on patients to receive the information to produce the images has improved over the last ten years especially,” says Spielmann. “We are seeing much more detail in a number of the injuries, such as ligament injuries – a meniscus injury is a really good example. We can see a more subtle tear much easier in the knee, and we can see cartilage detail much better than we used to.”

Watch our knee MRI video.

Today's MRI machines also offer patients a much more comfortable examination than in the past. An open bore MRI procedure lets patients rest comfortably during the exam, eliminating concerns such as weight and claustrophobia.

Head MRI for Sports Injuries

The most common type of head injury in sport is a concussion, which typically occurs with impact. Head injuries can be extremely serious, making proper diagnosis essential in recovery and rehabilitation. A head MRI scan can determine both the severity of a hockey head injury and the best course of treatment.

“Assessing for concussion or traumatic brain injury has improved greatly,” says Spielmann. “The detail in the brain is much greater compared to ten years ago, so that’s really made a big difference for brain MRI.”

If you have any questions about the advantages of MRI technology or the MRI procedure, talk to your family doctor, referring physician or local diagnostic imaging center.

Complementary Content to How the MRI Procedure Has Changed: Advances in MRI Technology

Videos & Articles:

• MRI can be used on various structures within the body, including the head, groin, and blood vessels. MRI is often used to detect sports injuries, especially head injuries. Watch our ice sports videos to find out more about hockey injuries and how you can prevent them.
• Brain injuries can cause severe physical and emotional trauma for patients and greatly affect families. A brain MRI is one of the main ways that the severity of a brain injury is determined. Watch videos on common brain injuries, symptoms and treatments.