Technical Limitations on the Use of Traditional Magnetic Resonance Imaging in the Evaluation of Mummified Remains: A View From a Hands-On Radiologic Technologist's Perspective

Noninvasive imaging tools have been the standard in mummy studies for several decades focusing primarily on CT scan technology. Although magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been attempted on mummified tissues on numerous occasions these have met with varying degrees of success. The basic physics of MRI are reviewed here with an emphasis on how the physics limit the success of MRI in mummified tissues. Adjusting MRI parameters can enhance the images produced with a summary table that considers the effect of adjustments within these parameters. Several mummies with varying methods of preservation have been included in this study and MRI images presented and the results are critically assessed. MRI can generate basic images in most tissues even when significantly desiccated. Using an understanding of the essentials of MRI physics, with the adjustment of MRI parameters, the data acquisition process can be enhanced to create the best possible images. When successfully applied, MRI generated images can allow for the resolution of soft tissue differences, especially of collapsed internal organ masses, even in dehydrated mummies that are much less effectively rendered in CT scans. Anat Rec, 298:1116-1124, 2015. (c) 2015 Wiley Periodicals, Inc.