Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the widely used and comprehensive diagnostic method. The first examinations in the world were performed in the early 1980s.

Magnetic resonance imaging does not use roentgen rays (X-rays), but is based on the principle of nuclear magnetic resonance. Therefore, it is regarded as the safest method of internal diagnosis. If recommended, it can even be used to examine a foetus in utero. 

Magnetic resonance apparatus generates a strong magnetic field. The higher its’ intensity, the more accurate the human interior images. In clinical practice, apparatus creating 0.1 to 3.0 Tesla intensity are used. An apparatus which creates over 1.0 Tesla is called “high-field” and is used for spectroscopy, functional examinations, or the ultra-fast inspection of blood vessels and the heart.

Magnetic resonance exploits properties of the nuclei of a hydrogen atom, in particular those of its protons. When put into a strong magnetic field they become magnetized, consume impulses of low frequency electromagnetic waves and send impulses during the disappearance of activity. This signal, differing in absorption depending on the kind of tissue it passes through, is processed by the computer system and converted into images which are interpreted by radiologists. 

In our Diagnostic Imaging Centre we have a General Electric Sigma 1,5T HDxt Adv magnetic resonance apparatus at our disposal.

Our MRI apparatus is equipped with coils earmarked for orthopaedics:

• 8 channel coil for knee joint examination
• 8 channel coil for glenohumeral joint examination
• 8 channel coil for wrist examination
• 8 channel coil for all spine segments examination
• 8 channel coil for head and cervical segment of the spine examination
• Standard coil for head examination
• 4 channel coil for knee joint, ankle joint and foot examination
• 6 channel flex coil
• 12 channel coil for pelvis, hip joint and lower limb examinations
• 16 channel coil for shin examinations – muscles and sinew
• Standard coil for temporomandibular joint examinations
• Round coil
• Soft coil for general use

We are also equipped with software for the colour shaded depiction of cartilage joints.

The apparatus is equipped with the option of examining the diffusion of the whole body. This is intended to detect inflammation or localised areas of heat within the whole body. The nature of the MRI apparatus can be a little bit daunting to even the bravest of patients, so at CMC we do have the facility to give mild anaesthetics to make the examination less stressful. We recommend this particularly to those patients suffering from claustrophobia and also to children.

We specialize in muscular-skeletal examinations: joints, sinews and muscles.

We offer the possibility of carrying out the arthrography of joints or sinews.

Naturally we also provide general head and spine examinations.