In medical diagnostic imaging centers, magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, is a routine technique. Using a powerful magnet and computer inside a tube-shaped device, MRI scans provide images of the body’s internal organs. In order to diagnose and treat a number of conditions, including brain injury, cancer, stroke, heart disease, joint damage, and more, your doctor could recommend that you have an MRI scan at an advanced diagnostic imaging facility. An intense magnetic field and radio waves are used in MRI to provide precise images of the body’s organs and tissues. So, this article will help you to find out more about MRI scans, how they function, and how medical professionals use them. Let’s find out.

What Is MRI Scan?

An MRI scan, also known as magnetic resonance imaging, is a painless procedure that generates crystal-clear images of the organs and internal body parts. These finely detailed images are created by MRI using a powerful magnet, radio waves, and a computer. The scanner is often shaped like a long tube with a table in the center into which the patient can slide.MRI scans do not contain potentially harmful ionizing radiation, unlike CT scans and X-rays.

Types of Magnetic Resonance Imaging

The computer connected to the scanner picks up on these various responses and converts them into a visual picture of how the patient’s body is internally operating. In the past, all MRI machines were visually and functionally identical. Today, there are three main types of MRI scanners. They are;

• Traditional Closed MRI

A patient lies within a sizable tube called a closed MRI machine. Almost always, this kind of scanner yields a very high-quality image. Sometimes, the comfort of the patient in these devices is a concern. Patients who are claustrophobic may fear because of the tiny tube they must sleep in.

• Open MRI Scans

The open MRI was created in an effort to provide claustrophobic patients with better comfort and to enable the scanning of obese patients. Due to fewer magnets, older open-type scanners did not create images of particularly high quality. The capabilities of the new devices are extremely close to those of a closed MRI. These still need the patient to lie down, but they do not entirely confine the patient.

• Standing or Sitting MRI

Although these devices aid in patient comfort, the image quality is currently substandard. These devices might become higher quality in the future, which would greatly increase their utility. They are currently only helpful in a few extremely particular situations.

Open MRI vs. Closed MRI

Although closed MRIs are more frequent than open MRIs, if you have claustrophobia or other claustrophobia-related symptoms, you can choose an open MRI instead. The major goal of open MRI is to bring comfort to claustrophobic individuals. Furthermore, there are other differences between an open MRI and a closed MRI they are;

• Closed MRI

The typical MRI technology is the closed MRI, which consists of a cylindrical space from which the patient is transported. Because of this, the patients must lie on their backs in a small, enclosed area with the exception of the opening through which they were forced into the vessel. The standard size of a conventional MRI bore is 60 cm, while a wide-bore MRI has a bore size of 70 cm. The most important benefit of a closed MRI is that it yields more thorough results. You will receive better-quality images thanks to its stronger magnetic field, which will aid doctors in making a more accurate diagnosis.

Closed MRI disadvantages

• While resting on the equipment, all patients must maintain complete stillness.
• All patients who suffer from claustrophobia should be concerned about it.
• These systems are quite loud since they generate a loud thumping sound while scanning.
• The equipment won’t easily accommodate larger patients.
• Open MRI

Open MRI was developed with people’s comfort in mind, especially for those who are naturally claustrophobic. It is designed such that it resembles a doughnut with open sides hovering above the patient’s head rather than being cylindrical. The magnets are positioned above and below the patient rather than all around them.

Open MRI disadvantages

• Provides images that are of lower quality compared to closed MRIs.
• Getting the images out of the open MRI takes a little while.

MRI scan side effects

A patient experiencing negative effects from an MRI scan is quite unusual. However, some people may have nausea, headaches, discomfort, or burning where the contrast dye was injected. If your MRI involves the use of contrast material, there is a very small chance that you will experience an allergic response. Typically, these responses are minor and manageable with medicine. There will be a medical professional on hand to help you right away if you experience an allergic response.

Conclusion

Strong magnets and radio wave signals used by the magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner may cause some metal things in your body to heat up or even move. Health and safety hazards could arise as a result of this. The resolution and detail of an MRI image are fairly high, and it is capable of detecting minute alterations in bodily structures. To improve the accuracy of the pictures during several procedures, contrast chemicals like gadolinium are employed. Hope this article helped you to know about the types of MRI’s.

A fracture is a break in the continuity of a bone; it can be partial or complete, and it can involve one or more bones. Fractures are generally caused by trauma, such as a car accident, a fall, or an impact from another object. They can also be caused by diseases such as osteoporosis. Today, we want to discuss fractures in more detail because we often see lots of questions surrounding the topic.

What’s a Fracture?

We touched on it in the introduction, but a fracture is a break in the continuity of a bone. What does this mean? Well, if you imagine a bone as being a long, solid rod, then a fracture is any break in that rod. The break can be partial or complete, and it can involve one or more bones. While a partial fracture means the bone is still partially attached, a complete fracture means the bone is completely detached.

There are different types of fractures, but the most common are:

• Greenstick fractures – this is where the bone cracks but doesn’t break all the way through
• Transverse fractures – these are horizontal breaks in the bone
• Oblique fractures – these are angled breaks in the bone
• Comminuted fractures – this is where the bone shatters into several pieces

Causes of Fractures

Fractures are generally caused by trauma, such as a car accident, a fall, or a direct blow to the bone. They can also be caused by repetitive stress injuries, such as those seen in athletes who play high-intensity sports. On the other hand, fractures aren’t normally caused by lighter exercises like walking. Typically, walking and lighter exercise leads to problems with the muscles, ligaments, and joints rather than fractures in the bone.

At this point, it’s important to mention osteoarthritis. This is a condition where the cartilage breaks down, causing the bones to rub against each other. Osteoarthritis can lead to fractures, but it’s a different kind of injury. Also, osteoporosis is a condition where the bones become weakened and more susceptible to fractures.

Symptoms of a Fracture

How do you know if you have a fracture? Here are some common symptoms:

• Severe pain at the site of the injury
• Swelling
• Bruising
• Tenderness
• Deformity (if the bone is out of place)
• Inability to move

If you’re currently walking around and putting weight through the leg, you probably don’t have a fracture. Typically, fractures happen when there’s a high-impact force (think: car accident, fall from a height) that causes the bone to break. Therefore, you’re likely to get medical attention because of the accident rather than needing to call an expert after.

Treating a Fracture

So, how do you treat a fracture? If the bone is out of place, the first step is to realign it (called a reduction). This can be done by manually manipulating the bone back into place or by surgically placing pins, screws, or plates to keep the bone in its proper position. Once the bone is aligned, it will need to heal; this process can take anywhere from weeks to months, depending on the extent of the injury and surgery.

During this time, you’ll likely be on crutches or in a cast/splint to keep the bone from moving. You’ll also need to see a doctor regularly to make sure the bone is healing properly. Dr. David Slattery is an orthopedic surgeon and one of the most reputable professionals in this industry, so this gives you an insight into the sort of expert you’ll see after a fracture.

Prenatal care is one of the most important things you can do for a healthy pregnancy. It’s vital to your health and the health of your baby. Prenatal Vitamins are necessary for a developing baby and a pregnant woman needs 400 micrograms of folic acid daily. These Pregnancy Vitamins are essential to maintain a healthy pregnancy and prevent congenital disabilities in the baby.

Prenatal care includes regular check-ups with your healthcare provider, who will monitor your baby’s health and development. These appointments are an opportunity to ask questions, get information and support, and address any concerns you may have. 

Prenatal care can help identify potential problems early when they’re most easily treated. It can also help you manage a healthy pregnancy by:

• Providing information on how to have a healthy lifestyle during pregnancy
• Offering advice on nutrition and exercise during pregnancy
• Helping you manage any medical conditions that may arise during pregnancy
• Offering guidance on managing stress during pregnancy

Prenatal care is essential for a healthy pregnancy and healthy baby. If you’re pregnant or thinking about becoming pregnant, make an appointment with your healthcare provider to get started on prenatal care.

10 Questions to Ask Your Doctor at Your Prenatal Visits

Regular prenatal visits are a great time to talk to your doctor or midwife about any questions about your pregnancy, labor, and delivery. Here are some important topics to discuss:

1. What Physical Changes Can I Expect During Pregnancy?

During your pregnancy, you’ll experience various physical changes as your body adjusts to accommodate your growing baby. These changes can include weight gain, skin changes, and swelling in the extremities. It’s important to discuss any concerns you have about these changes with your doctor or midwife.

2. How Hormonal Changes During Pregnancy Can Affect Me?

Hormonal changes during pregnancy can cause a variety of symptoms, including mood swings, fatigue, and nausea. It’s important to discuss any concerns you have with your doctor or midwife. They can offer guidance on how to manage these symptoms.

3. What Can I Do to Cope With Stress During Pregnancy?

Pregnancy can be a stressful time. It’s important to discuss any concerns you have about stress with your doctor or midwife. They can offer guidance on relaxation techniques and stress management. However, here are some ways that may help you cope with stress during pregnancy:

• Staying active and getting regular exercise
• Eating a healthy diet
• Getting plenty of rest
• Limiting your exposure to stressful situations
• Seeking social support from family and friends

4. What Are the Signs of Labor?

Knowing the signs of labor is important so you can be prepared for when it begins. These signs can include contractions, effacement of the cervix, and dilation of the cervix. Discuss any concerns you have with your doctor or midwife.

5. What Are the Different Types of Delivery?

There are several different types of delivery, including vaginal delivery, cesarean delivery, and assisted delivery. Discuss your preferences with your doctor or midwife. They can help you understand the risks and benefits of each type of delivery.

Vaginal delivery: Vaginal delivery is the most common type of delivery. It involves delivering the baby through the birth canal. This type of delivery generally has a shorter recovery time than other types of delivery.

Cesarean delivery: Cesarean delivery, also known as a C-section, is a type of delivery in which the baby is delivered through an incision in the mother’s abdomen. This type of delivery may be necessary if the baby is in a breech position or if there are other complicating factors.

Assisted delivery: Assisted delivery is a type of delivery in which instruments, such as forceps or a vacuum extractor, are used to help deliver the baby. This type of delivery may be necessary if the mother is tired or the baby is large.

6. What Are the Signs of Preterm Labor?

Preterm labor is labor that begins before 37 weeks of pregnancy. Knowing the signs of preterm labor is important so you can seek medical help if necessary. These signs can include contractions, effacement of the cervix, and dilation of the cervix. If you notice any of these signs, get in touch with your doctor or midwife immediately.

7. What Is the Difference Between True Labor Contractions and Braxton Hicks Contractions?

During pregnancy, you can experience Braxton Hicks contractions, painless contractions of the uterus. These contractions are often referred to as false labor. True labor contractions, on the other hand, are regular and painful contractions that indicate that labor is beginning. Contact your doctor or midwife if you’re unsure whether you’re experiencing these two contractions.

8. When Should I Go to the Hospital if I Think I’m in Labor?

If you think you are in labor, it’s important to contact your doctor or midwife. They will be able to determine whether you are in labor and, if so, when you should go to the hospital. In general, you should go to the hospital when your contractions are 5 minutes apart and last for 60 seconds each. However, if you are experiencing other symptoms, such as vaginal bleeding or amniotic fluid leakage, you should go to the hospital immediately.

9. What Are My Options for Pain Relief During Labor and Delivery?

There are several options for pain relief during labor and delivery. These options can include medication, such as an epidural, or non-medication methods, such as massage or breathing techniques. Discuss your preferences with your doctor or midwife. They can help you understand the risks and benefits of each option.

10. What Is the Postpartum Period?

The postpartum period is the time after delivery when your body is adjusting to the new baby. This period can last for up to 6 weeks. During this time, you may experience mood swings, fatigue, and changes in your breasts and vagina. It’s important to get plenty of rest and eat a healthy diet during this time. Here are some tips for taking care of yourself during the postpartum period:

• Get plenty of rest: Sleep when your baby sleeps. This will help you recover from labor and delivery’s physical and emotional stress.
• Eat a healthy diet: Eating healthy will help you heal and give you energy.
• Avoid alcohol and smoking: Alcohol and smoking can interfere with your recovery.
• Exercise: Walking is a great way to get some exercise and fresh air.

Being pregnant and giving birth is a significant event in your life. It’s normal to have questions and concerns about labor and delivery. Be sure to discuss your questions and concerns with your doctor or midwife so you can be as prepared as possible for labor and delivery.