Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a powerful magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to produce detailed pictures of organs, soft tissues, and other internal body structures. Detailed MR images allow veterinary radiologists to better evaluate parts of the body and certain diseases that may not be assessed adequately with other imaging methods such as x-ray, ultrasound or CT. Veterinarians request MRI imaging to help diagnose:

• Tumors and inflammatory diseases of the brain and spinal cord
• Disorders of the eyes and the inner ear
• Disease in the pituitary gland
• Other disorders of the head and skull
• Disorders of bones and joints
• Diagnosis of lameness