Title: NMR in Imaging – Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
Introduction
Since its development in the mid-20th century, Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR) has been paramount in advancing scientific research, most notably in molecular physics, chemistry, and biomedical imaging. Resultantly, it forms the foundation of an imaging technique that has revolutionized the medical field – Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI).
I. Nuclear Magnetic Resonance (NMR): An Overview
NMR involves aligning the nuclear spins of atomic nuclei in a strong magnetic field, then perturbing this alignment using electromagnetic fields, and finally analyzing the electromagnetic signals emitted during the relaxation process. The phenomenon comes down to quantum physics where certain types of atoms, such as Hydrogen-1, possess a natural frequency, or “resonance”, that can absorb and emit radio frequency energy when placed in a magnetic field.
II. Working Principle of NMR
NMR is a property of atomic nuclei with an odd number of protons and/or neutrons. These have a property called spin, which results in a magnetic moment. When these nuclei are placed in an external magnetic field, they align along the direction of the field, resulting in a net magnetization. The magnetization either aligns with the field (low energy state) or against the field (high energy state). When a radio frequency (RF) pulse is introduced the magnetic moments of the nuclei can flip from the low energy state to the high energy state. When the RF pulse is switched off, the nuclei revert to their original alignment, inducing a small electrical signal in a receiver coil, which is the nuclear magnetic resonance signal.
III. Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)
MRI is a non-invasive imaging technology developed in the 1970s that creates detailed images of the insides of the human body. It employs the principles of NMR and the interaction of biological tissue with electromagnetic fields. Rather than using ionizing radiation like X-ray and computed tomography (CT) scan technologies, MRI utilizes a powerful magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to produce its images.
IV. Functional Components of MRI
1. The Magnet: The magnet creates a strong magnetic field that aligns the protons in the body in the same direction. There are three types of magnets used, superconducting, permanent, and resistive. The strength of the magnetic field is significant in defining the quality of the MRI image and is measured in Tesla (T).
2. Gradient System: It is used for spatial encoding, which helps identify the origin of the NMR signals from different locations within the body.
3. RF System: Comprises of RF transmitter (which sending out RF signal to disturb the balance magnetization) and RF receiver (which receive the NMR signals created when RF is turned off).
4. Computer System: For controlling the timing, intensity, and spatial configuration of RF and gradient pulses and transform the NMR to form images using mathematical algorithms.
V. The Process of MRI
The patient lies on a table that slides into a tube-like machine. The main magnetic field aligns atomic particles called protons in the patient’s body. When the RF field is applied, it’s absorbed by the protons, causing them to flip their spin. When the RF field is switched off, the protons ‘relax’ back to their original orientation, emitting RF signals. These signals are received by an antenna in close proximity to the anatomy of interest and are used to generate an image.
VI. Applications of MRI
MRI has an array of applications in medical diagnosis and biomedicine. This includes neuroimaging, cardiovascular imaging, musculoskeletal imaging, liver and gastrointestinal tract imaging, and cancer imaging among others.
VII. Advantages and Limitations of MRI
Advantages include its non-invasiveness, absence of ionizing radiation, and excellent soft tissue contrast. Limitations often include high costs, long scan times, noise, and claustrophobia in patients.
Conclusion
MRI, stemming from the principles of NMR, continues to be an essential tool in imaging and medical diagnostics. It has significantly improved the mapping and treatment of diverse medical conditions, and with continual advancements, promises even greater contributions to healthcare in the future.