An MRI is a procedure in which radio waves and a powerful magnet linked to a computer are used to create detailed pictures of areas inside the body. These pictures can show the difference between normal and diseased tissue.

MRIs produce better images of organs and soft tissue than other scanning techniques, such as computed tomography (CT) or x-ray. The MRI is especially useful for imaging the brain, the spine, the soft tissue of joints, and the inside of bones.

San Antonio Community Hospital's new MRI system has exceptional image quality and is about twice as fast as older models. Not only will patients spend less time having their MRI; they will also be more comfortable.