What is MRI?

MRI, or Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is an imaging technique that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to make computer images of internal body organs. No radiation or X-rays are used.

Brain MRI image

Where can I learn more about MRI?

There are a lot of sites on the World Wide Web that can give you much more information. This is a partial list of MRI resources on the World Wide Web.  The content of these sites is not controlled or endorsed in any way by UCSF or the Office of Women's Health.  If you have suggestions for additional sites, or one of the listed sites seems no longer functional, please contact the Webmistress.

• The Basics of MRI - Joseph P. Hornak, PhD - an excellent Web based MRI intro book.
• An Introduction to MRI - Graham Wright, PhD - HTML introduction to MRI.
• What is MRI? and MRI Tutor - J.R. Ballinger, Uof Florida - short descriptions of basic MRI concepts.
• MRI Patient Information - FAQs - William H. Wright, MPA, RT
• Intro to MRI Scans - Beth Israel Deaconess Hospital
• International MR Safety Central Web Site - Emanuel Kanal, MD, Frank Shellock, PhD
• International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine's MR Site List includes technical and clinical educational sites, research sites, companies, conferences, journals, ...
• Magnetic Resonance Multimedia Virtual Textbook - there is also a specific chapter on Breast MRI, written by Dr. Steven Harms of the University of Arkansas.