Detailed measurements of the T1-weighted, T2-weighted, and MT-weighted signal were performed for ex vivo muscle samples heated to various temperatures for different times. Consistent, monotonic increases in signal intensity were observed with progressive thermal coagulation, corresponding to an increase in T2 relaxation time and an increase in MT-weighted signal for temperatures above 60 degrees C. The relationship for T1 relaxation was more complex, showing a decrease in T1 relaxation from 40 to 60 degrees C and an increase above 60 degrees C. These techniques provide a more direct measure of tissue thermal coagulation than that provided by MR thermometry and suggest MR imaging strategies for the optimization and monitoring of thermal coagulation therapy protocols that create thermal damage in target tissues.