Magnetic resonance imaging: present status and future perspectives

Abstract

The first clinical magnetic resonance (MR) images were produced in Nottingham and Aberdeen during 1980 (Hawkes et al, 1980; Smith et al, 1981). Since that time, over a thousand clinical MR systems have been installed world-wide and a technique which was little more than a curiosity 8 years ago is now being proposed as the imaging modality of first choice in a wide range of diseases. The physics necessary for image interpretation in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is more complex than for any other technique in radiology. This difficulty is compounded by the rapid and continuing evolution of the technique. To some radiologists, particularly those with a degree in physics or chemistry, each new pulse sequence, coil development or acronym is another opportunity for research, publications, travel and promotion; to others, new MRI developments inspire nothing as much as a shrewd assessment of the years remaining until retirement balanced against the cost of MR machines and the available money. A third group of radiologists sits somewhere in between. They are not directly involved with MRI, but are increasingly exposed to MR images in their practice and are expected to interpret these and advise about the need for an MRI examination in particular cases. They may also be expected to assess the need for MRI in their particular hospital. It is to this latter group that this article is addressed.