Development of clinical MR imaging in Russia and other CIS countries

This paper summarizes the development of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) in the health systems of the USSR and later in Russia and the neighboring countries. Nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) has been used as a scientific tool in the USSR since the 1940s. In 1982 the first whole-body MR imager was installed. By the end of 1999, 131 MR systems were operating in Russia. There are substantial regional differences in the number of units installed. Russia has a domestic production of low-field MR units. There are also plans for domestic production of MR contrast agents. Other former USSR republics have much less MR equipment. Most of the MRI centers experience difficulties in maintaining equipment in working condition. Some positive changes in the national health service systems give reason to believe in an increase in the quantity of MR units and the quality of their clinical use.