Which imaging technique is primarily used to examine soft tissues instead of bones or blood vessels?

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is primarily used to examine soft tissues due to its superior ability to provide detailed images of the body's internal structures without the use of ionizing radiation. The MRI technology employs strong magnetic fields and radio waves to generate images, which is particularly effective for visualizing organs, muscles, cartilage, and other soft tissue types, including the brain and spinal cord.

MRI excels in differentiating between various types of soft tissues compared to other imaging modalities. For instance, it is highly valuable in diagnosing conditions related to the brain, joints, and other areas where soft tissue structures are prominent. This capability makes MRI the preferred choice when soft tissue contrast and detail are crucial for diagnosis.

Other imaging techniques such as X-rays, CT scans, and ultrasounds have different primary uses. X-rays are primarily used to visualize bones and detect fractures, while CT scans combine X-ray technology with computer processing to create cross-sectional images but still have a greater focus on structural abnormalities within bones and organs. Ultrasound uses sound waves to produce images and is often used to evaluate soft tissue but is less detailed than MRI for comprehensive assessments.