Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a type of advanced imaging that is ideal for evaluating tissue with various amounts of hydrogen, particularly water content. During an MRI study, a magnetic field is intermittently applied to the body to align hydrogen particles within the tissues. When the magnetic field is interrupted, the receiving coils monitor the varying times within which the particles return to their natural alignment. At VCA VSNC, MRI is commonly used to examine the brain, spinal cord, spinal canal, muscles and soft tissues of the abdomen.
Similar to CT, MRI requires veterinary patients to be anesthetized during the scan to minimize motion artifact. Prior to anesthesia, your pet will be thoroughly examined and health status assessed with recent bloodwork to ensure that your pet is healthy enough for general anesthesia. Every patient undergoing anesthesia at our hospital is monitored by both the veterinarian and trained veterinary staff.