Magnetic Resonance Imaging, is a method used by physicians to visualize internal organs of the human body and obtain diagnostic information. These images are produced without the use of radiation. MRI is a noninvasive procedure and there are no known side or after effects. The procedure is painless. You won't see or feel anything during the exam. A faint knocking sound will be heard, which is the imaging process in operation. The benefits of magnetic resonance imaging are vast and new applications that are continually being developed through ongoing research. MRI imaging is used for virtually all parts of the body. It is the primary imaging modality for evaluation of diseases of the brain and spine. It is effective in depicting abnormalities of the eye, paranasal sinuses, throat, salivary glands, and the thyroid. MRI is the method of choice for imaging of the musculoskeletal system and is widely used for evaluation of the shoulder, elbow, wrist, hip, knee, and ankle. It can also accurately depict abnormalities within the bone marrow. It has many applications in the cardiovascular system. The display of blood vessels known as MR angiography is an accurate, noninvasive means of obtaining information about arteries of the head, neck, and body.