Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)



Cross-sectional images of the body can also be obtained without x-ray by the use of a magnetic field and radiofrequency radiation combined with computer analysis. Current detectors, available in only a few centers, detect protons and thus dis­play organs by their chemical composition rather than x-ray density. MRI may offer better resolu­tion than CT and also offers the opportunity to follow in situ chemical reactions. The equipment is even more expensive than that used for CT, however, and the role of MRI in clinical medicine is not yet established.