Starting your journey into the world of Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) can be both exciting and daunting, especially on your first day of class. Familiarizing yourself with key MRI terms beforehand can help you feel more confident and prepared to dive into your studies.
Whether you’re a beginner or looking to refresh your knowledge, understanding these foundational terms will not only enrich your learning experience but also set you ahead as you begin your exploration of MRI technology and its applications.
Here are 10 MRI terms that you may encounter on your first day of class:
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- Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI): A diagnostic test that uses a strong magnetic field and radio waves to produce images of the body’s internal structures.
- MRI Scanner: The machine used to perform MRI exams, which includes a large tube-like structure and a bed that moves through it.
- Radiofrequency (RF) Pulse: A brief burst of radio waves used to stimulate the body’s atoms during an MRI exam.
- Gradient Coils: Coils within the MRI scanner that create a magnetic field that varies across the patient’s body, allowing for the creation of 3D images.
- Contrast Agent: A substance that is administered to a patient to enhance the visibility of certain structures during an MRI exam.
- Gadolinium: A commonly used contrast agent that helps to highlight blood vessels and tumors.
- Slice: A single image produced during an MRI exam, representing a thin cross-section of the body.
- Field of View (FOV): The area of the body that is imaged during an MRI exam, which is determined by the size of the scanner and the position of the patient.
- Magnetic Field Strength: The strength of the magnetic field produced by the MRI scanner, which is measured in units of Tesla (T). Higher field strengths generally result in higher-quality images.
- Pulse Sequence: A specific combination of RF pulses and gradient coils used to produce a particular type of MRI image.
These essential MRI terms will give you a head start in your academic journey.
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