Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive medical test that helps physicians diagnose and treat a wide array of medical conditions.

MRI uses a powerful magnetic field, radio frequency pulses, and a computer to produce detailed pictures of organs, soft tissues, bone, and virtually all other internal body structures.

MRI does not use ionizing radiation (x-rays). Detailed MR images allow physicians to evaluate various parts of the body and determine the presence of certain diseases. The images can then be examined on a computer monitor, transmitted electronically, printed or copied to a CD. MR imaging of the body is performed to evaluate organs of the chest and abdomen—including the heart, liver, biliary tract, kidneys, spleen, bowel, pancreas, and adrenal glands. MRI’s also view pelvic organs including the bladder and the reproductive organs such as the uterus and ovaries in females; the prostate gland in males; also blood vessels (including MR Angiography) and lymph nodes.