MRIs and Other Issues in Medicine Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 750 words

MRIs and Other Issues in Medicine - Essay Example An X-Ray is also used to image internal structures of the body, but opposed to an MRI, an X-Ray is a type of high-energy radiation. X-Rays are made of electromagnetic radiation with wavelengths between ultraviolet and gamma rays, and are most often used in low doses for making images of internal body structures and in higher doses for treating cancer. A CT Scan (CAT Scan) is again, another form of viewing the internal structures of a person's body. CT Scans are in fact a computerized series of X-Rays, which can reveal tumors and small strokes in the brain. A computer is used to generate a three dimensional image, which are then analyzed and displayed for diagnostic purposes. An MRI is most often used for studying nerves, muscles, ligaments, bones, and other tissues in the body. Problems such as a disc herniation in the spine or masses or tumors within soft tissues are seen well on an MRI image. MRIs are most helpful and most commonly used by orthopedic surgeons; an MRI is particularly helpful at diagnosing many common orthopedic problems. Therefore the most probable explanation as to why and MRI would be ordered is if orthopedic problems are perceived to exist in a patient. What Would it be an Appropriate Situation for an MRI not to be Done There are several proper explanations for why an MRI would not be ordered for a patient. Firstly, an MRI is not the most accurate test. Although an MRI is useful in the diagnosis of many conditions, it is not 100% accurate in all cases, which means sometimes the problem will not show up in the MRI. Another primary reason as to why an MRI might not be ordered is because an MRI is usually "not the first step." (Cluett, 2006). In other words, there are other steps which should be taken in an attempt to figure out the problem, rather than immediately ordering an MRI. Lastly but certainly no less importantly, is the fact that an MRI is only a diagnostic test, and not a treatment. "An MRI gives some people peace of mind, but will do nothing to change the symptoms of your condition." (Cluett, 2006). Are There any Limitations on an MRI Although MRIs have major technological advantages when compared to other imaging modalities, there are also certain limitations which are present. Disadvantages are there, such as the fact that because of the small bore of the magnet, some patients experience claustrophobia and often have difficulty cooperating in the study. As well, some obese patients cannot be studied by an MRI. Patient throughput is also slower than comparative imaging