mri

Everyday

1. MRI stands for magnetic resonance imaging, a hospital machine that uses strong magnets and radio waves to make detailed pictures of the inside of the body. tree →
2. An MRI or MRI scan is one such picture or test. tree →

In the lessons

In health and science lessons MRI is compared with X-rays: it uses no harmful radiation and shows soft parts like the brain, muscles and ligaments clearly. Patients lie still inside a noisy tube. Metal must be removed because of the powerful magnet. Phrases: «an MRI scan», «have an MRI», «MRI machine».

Examples

• The doctor sent her for an MRI to check her knee. tree →
• An MRI scan uses magnets, not X-rays. tree →
• You have to lie very still during an MRI. tree →
• The MRI machine bangs and buzzes loudly. tree →
• Take off anything metal before an MRI. tree →
• The MRI showed a small tear in the ligament. tree →

Note

Written in capitals: MRI. Use «an MRI» (because it is said «em-ar-eye»). Not an English word but an abbreviation. Safety: no metal near the magnet; people with some implants cannot have one.