Why is MRI such a good modality?
MRI allows us to exquisitely see different parts of the body. In the brain, it allows us to differentiate between different areas. In the spine, MRI is the only modality that allows us to see the spinal cord. In joints, MRI allows us to look at the internal parts of the joints, including ligaments, tendons and menisci. It also allows evaluation of various cardiac structures, as well as functional imaging of various parts of the brain. MRI does all this by sectioning the body in different planes. Just as it is necessary to slice a loaf of bread to know the quality of the slices, so also, MRI allows us to section the body to look at its insides. Thus, the skull X-ray only shows us the outside, whereas MRI shows us the brain inside.
