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.

Children show signs of post-COVID lung damage on MRI.

Advanced MRI shows decreased lung function in kids with persistent COVID symptoms

New research findings may help explain why children recovering from COVID-19 continue to struggle with lingering fatigue. 

How TikTok 'brain rot' impacts brain structure and function

While social media addiction has been known since the emergence of Facebook, many believe that TikTok took digital dependence to another level. 

CDI technique makes breast cancer glow on imaging.

MRI technique makes breast cancer 'glow' on imaging

The technique highlights differences in how water molecules move through cancerous tissue in comparison to healthy tissue.

White matter hyperintensities might not be a marker of TBI after all

New findings are calling into question the notion that white matter hyperintensities are biomarkers of brain injuries. 

New AI model segments 80 MRI structures

Easy-to-use AI model effectively segments 80 structures on MRI

New data suggest the model outperforms publicly available segmentation algorithms.  

SubtleHD receives FDA clearance for AI-powered MRI solutions

FDA clears AI software capable of reducing MRI acquisition times by up to 80%

The product was developed to both improve image quality and shorten image acquisition times. 

Factors that increase the likelihood of false results on prostate MRI

Researchers suggest the variables identified in their study should be considered when deciding whether to send patients for additional assessments to confirm or rule out malignancy.

healthcare money economics dollar stethoscope acquire merger

Mexico, not China, is biggest tariff concern among radiology vendors

If 25% tariffs go into effect, it could have a big impact on the cost of medical imaging and radiotherapy systems, with many manufacturing facilities in Mexico. 

Around the web

After three years of intermittent shortages of nuclear imaging tracer technetium-99m pyrophosphate, there are no signs of the shortage abating.

GE HealthCare said the price of iodine contrast increased by more than 200% between 2017 to 2023. Will new Chinese tariffs drive costs even higher?

These risks appear to be present regardless of a person's age or health at the time of infection.