At a recent University of Aberdeen event we met Michael Hendry, MRI Superintendant Radiographer. MRI stands of Magnetic Resonance Imaging. It's a technique that makes very detailed images of your inner body with the help of magnetic fields. It is mainly used for diagnosing disease.

Mike told us how he and his team are helping with medical research in NHS Grampian:

NHS Grampian and the University of Aberdeen have always been at the forefront of MRI technology. The world’s first MRI patient was scanned here in August 1980. We continue this legacy to help improve patient care by

Here are a few examples:

Our imaging team is helping cell biology researchers in innovative ways. We are using equipment designed to image fingers and eyes to look at their tissue samples.

In the DREAMER study, we are using new MRI techniques that could lead to early dementia diagnosis. Current tests can be expensive and are not accessible to all. Finding a reliable and affordable way to diagnose dementia would make a positive impact and help patients and their families.

Getting an MRI scan can be stressful. We help children cope with their scans for potential brain surgery by letting them watch cartoons. Watching your favourite cartoon during your scan certainly helps keep you at ease! These cartoons are normally used as visual stimulation tool when imaging brain function in children.

As a key part of the University, we love nothing better than inspiring others to go beyond their boundaries. We encourage our imaging students and early-stage researchers to experiment with new techniques and re-imagine traditional ways of doing things. At the same time, we are challenging our hospital clinicians to break frontiers and fulfil the potential for our newly developed Field Cycling and Low Field scanners. 50 years of imaging in Aberdeen and we are still at the forefront.

Mike and his team also help with all medical research studies that include MRI scans. This reduces the pressure on the NHS MRI scanners.