Synopsis
The Handbook of MRI Technique is now an established text for many MRI practitioners around the world. MRI in Practice (also published by Blackwell Science) provides radiographers and radiologists with a user-friendly approach to MRI theory and how it may be applied in practice. The Handbook of MRI Technique  is intended to guide the uninitiated through scanning techniques and protocols and to help more experienced technologists improve image quality and recognise and rectify common artefacts.
In many countries a lack of educational facilities and funding, as well as the complex nature of the subject, has resulted in practitioners experiencing difficulty in learning MRI techniques. The second edition, published in 1999, has filled this gap and has proven to be a useful clinical text.

The Handbook of MRI Technique is split into two parts. Part 1 summarizes the main aspects of theory that relate to scanning and also includes practical tips on gating and equipment use, patient care and safety, and information on contrast media. Several useful tables are added for ease of reference and the pulse sequence section has been updated to include newer sequences. Part 2 includes a step-by-step guide to examining each anatomical area. It covers most of the techniques commonly used in MRI as well as paediatric imaging. Under each examination, categories such as indications, patient positioning, equipment, artifacts and tips on optimizing image quality are included. Guidance on technique and contrast usage is also provided. Due to the variety of imaging systems and differences in radiological preferences, information on protocols is mainly limited to pulse sequence, scan plane and slice prescription. The advice given on protocols is only intended to direct the examination. In addition, a basic anatomy section has been added at the beginning of each examination area.

The Handbook of MRI Technique provides a guide to the operation of MR systems and to enhance the education of MR users. It is not intended to be a clinical book as there are plenty of clinical specialist books on the market. Therefore diagrams and images focus intentionally on scan planes, slice prescriptions and sequencing to reflect the technical thrust of the book.