Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the gold standard imaging modality for soft tissues. It produces detail cross-sectional images of soft tissue and bone anatomy, including muscles, tendons, ligaments, brain and organs, without the use of ionizing radiation. In addition to orthopedic imaging, MRI is also used for heart, brain and breast. MRI uses gadolinium contrast in many exams to highlight tissues and blood vessels, which enhances images and offers better diagnostic quality. It can also be used in conjunction with PET scans. How does MRI work? MR creates images by using powerful magnets to polarize hydrogen atoms in water (the body is made of of more than 80% water) so they face in one direction. A radiofrequency pulse is then used to ping these atoms, causing them to wobble, or resonate. The MRI coils detect this and computers can assemble images from the signals. Basic MRI scans will focus on the resonance of fat and water in two different sequences, which highlight and contrast different features in the anatomy.

live MRI video of stuttering

Real-time MRI shows exact mechanisms underlying man's stutter

This development could help scientists fine-tune speech therapy to people who struggle with speaking. 

May 6, 2024

Many MRI accidents are related to technologist experience

This week at the International Society for Magnetic Resonance in Medicine’s annual meeting, a team of experts presented new data on the technologist’s role in MRI safety events.

May 6, 2024
United Imaging's 5T whole body MRI receives FDA clearance

First 5T MRI to offer whole-body imaging scores FDA clearance

Houston, Texas-based United Imaging announced the clearance of its uMR Jupiter 5T MRI system, the first to offer an 8-channel whole-body multi-transmit system. 

May 2, 2024
MRI sensor made from fiber optic cables detects errors in magnetic field at lighting fast speed

New sensor detects errors in MRI exams at 'lightning fast' speed

The sensor uses laser light encased in fiber cables and a small glass container filled with gas to measure changes in the strength of a magnetic field. 

May 2, 2024

A significant amount of imaging orders in emergency settings are inappropriate

A general lack of awareness pertaining to ACR appropriateness criteria could be a driving factor behind the misguided requisitions, authors of a new analysis suggest. 

April 30, 2024

Could diamond dust replace gadolinium in MRI contrast agents?

An accidental discovery could have future implications for the material makeup for MRI contrast media.

April 25, 2024
The imaging iodine contrast shortage is delaying procedures and causing rationing at hospitals. impact is it having on hospitals and the tough decisions that are being made to triage patients to determine if they will get a contrast CT scan or an interventional or surgical procedure requiring contrast. Photo by Dave Fornell

ChatGPT shows 'significant promise' in guiding contrast-related decisions

This could be especially helpful when timely clinical decisions relative to the use of a contrast agent need to be made.

April 23, 2024
globe

Actionable tips imaging departments can implement to reduce energy consumption

With the earth’s warmest March on record in 175 years barely in the rearview mirror, a team of radiology experts says medical imaging must step up its sustainability efforts. 

April 23, 2024

Around the web

Automated AI-generated measurements combined with annotated CT images can improve treatment planning and help referring physicians and patients better understand their disease, explained Sarah Jane Rinehart, MD, director of cardiac imaging with Charleston Area Medical Center.

Two advanced algorithms—one for CAC scores and another for segmenting cardiac chamber volumes—outperformed radiologists when assessing low-dose chest CT scans. 

"Gen AI can help tackle repetitive tasks and provide insights into massive datasets, saving valuable time," Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud, said Tuesday. 

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