While an MRI may perform a complete scan of the body, this is not the case in most instances, and only one area that your doctor wants to examine closely is scanned. Imagine an MRI machine is like a super camera. Does not take a picture of all things simultaneously unless instructed. Instead, it tends to focus on a single area, such as your knee, brain, or your back. This is because most people visit the doctor for an MRI for one reason, such as pain in the shoulder or a headache that just doesn’t go away. But guess what? If it is necessary, it can also take pictures of your whole body with the same machine. Pretty cool, right? Let’s make this as simple and fun as possible so they can understand it.

Is there a difference between a whole body MRI and an MRI of a specific area?

The MRI typically looks at a single region of the body, such as an arm, the abdomen or the brain, since most people want to have a closer look at one area where they feel something is wrong. However, if a person desires a more comprehensive scan of their body rather than just one area, the same machine can be used during a longer session.

What MRI scan covers

What does an MRI scan show and how long does it take? The length of an MRI visit is usually brisk and focused, so the MRI scan itself isn’t too long. However, if they are interested in a more comprehensive view of their health, a complete body scan can be performed.

Which parts of the body can be scanned using an MRI?

MRI can examine virtually any part of the body, such as the brain, spine, heart, joints, muscles and organs, like the liver. So what is an MRI scan use to diagnose and how?  Because MRI machines do not use X-rays, they are able to create high-resolution images of the body’s hard and soft tissues.

Body Areas Examined by MRI

These are common areas inspected:

• Brain and spine
• Heart and chest
• On the belly and other organs such as the liver
• Knees, shoulders and joints
• Muscles and soft tissue

This list is for one of the most common questions: what parts of the body can MRI scan? Nearly any part. 

Can you have a Whole-Body MRI Scan to find out if you have health issues?

Yes, there is a MRI scan of entire body that can provide a more comprehensive view of an individual’s overall health, rather than concentrating on a single region of their body. Usually it’s elected by those who enjoy staying one step in advance of their health and desires a general overview of health, but it’s not a compulsory component of each exam.

Whole-Body MRI Scans

If you’re considering a whole body MRI screening, here’s what to know:

• Visits numerous areas during one scan
• It could be used as a component of preventive test.
• Does not diagnose/treat anything on its own
• All results are checked by qualified staff

It is not a magic solution and it is no substitute for regular check-ups. However, it could be a useful part of the puzzle. Other centers, such as ViaScan of Las Colinas, provide whole-body scans as a preventative imaging service, allowing individuals to be more vigilant about their health, in addition to their own physician’s advice.

What is the difference between a whole-body MRI and a targeted MRI scan?

A targeted MRI examines a specific body area, such as the knee or the brain, to obtain a very detailed image of that area. Instead, a whole-body MRI screens numerous regions at once and provides a broader picture of your health and well-being, as opposed to just a single, detailed view of a single region.

Whole-Body vs Targeted MRI

Imagine taking a picture of the entire backyard, versus a close-up of only one flower. A targeted scan is ideal if there is a particular item that you want to check. The whole-body MRI scan is useful for a general survey. “Better” is not the whole story either because it depends on what the individual and his/her physician are looking to learn.

MRI Services and Other Useful Scans

Imaging centers at ViaScan of Las Colinas also provide other valuable tools, including heart scans, whole body scans, CT scans, and so on. A heart scan provides a picture of the heart and surrounding area, and a CT scan provides a quick and detailed image of an area such as the chest or belly. Whole-body scans are appropriate for those who prefer a single appointment with multiple areas scanned as opposed to multiple visits to the imaging center. All of these scans are not used as a standalone diagnosis or treatment, but are used to collect information that can be discussed with a healthcare provider who is licensed to provide medical care and services with knowledge of your medical history.

Conclusion

Is an MRI scan a whole-body scan? Most scans are done on a single area, although it’s possible to have it done of the entire body if you select a whole-body scan. MRI can focus in for a close-up or enlarge the view to get a wider perspective. These scans are either a screening of the whole body or a single joint and only provide information. Always consult a licensed health care professional to find out what any findings mean to you.