Nuclear magnetic resonance imaging. The current state of a new diagnostic technology

Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) imaging is a promising new technique in diagnostic medicine. Utilizing powerful magnets, radiofrequency transceivers, and computer imaging systems, NMR images reveal subtle yet striking information from an imaged slice segment of a living body. Its applications are numerous and growing rapidly. The central nervous system, the cardiovascular system, and the hepatobiliary tract have been examined with remarkable success. Imaging of musculoskeletal structures, renal studies, and intraabdominal studies have produced quality results. The unique sensitivity of NMR to neoplastic tissues may lead to its use for early cancer detection. Refinements of NMR instrumentation and computer software--and research into paramagnetic contrast agents--lead toward higher quality scans with wider applications. Hazards of NMR imaging are not yet clearly delineated. However, current NMR utilization parameters exclude certain high-risk groups (such as subjects with cardiac pacemakers) to ensure patient safety.