What is it?

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) is an image diagnosis technique that uses the magnetism of matter’s atom’s nucleus (tissue, organs, bones, etc.) captured by micro-magnets. This “signal” is translated into very precise images, which reveal a great number of abnormal situations that an experienced professional can interpret for the diagnosis of diverse pathologies.

Physically, it is carried out in a cylindrical structure, similar to a tube, into which the patient is introduced. The system is connected to an information equipment and a monitor. Electromagnetic waves produce the image: there is no harmful radiation, which makes it a safe method, besides not invasive. The reconstruction of those signals into images can be done by two-dimensional or three-dimensional methods, even though the former are more often used. Through them it can be seen with excellent resolution the contrast between soft and hard tissues, achieving a great definition of anatomical structures, tumors, injuries, etc.

Its immediate ancestor in the development of diagnostic techniques is the Computed Tomography (CT), which it has improved upon in for many uses since it obtains transversal and longitudinal images of the body with greater detail, without having to move the patient. The growing development of computer technology supplies images with greater spatial and multiple planes resolution. This converts NMR into the diagnosis technique with greatest sensibility for analyzing diverse pathologies.

It is necessary to absolutely differentiate it from ultrasound, which is based on the sonar principle. In it, high frequency sounds are transmitted through tissues, registering the echo produced by the collision with body structures. This signal is reproduced in a monitor, forming an image for diagnosis or support of certain invasive techniques.

It is necessary to have a first aid kit at home, at work, even inside the vehicle when going on a trip.