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.

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Are MR arthrograms on their way out?

Once the go-to exam for gaining intra-articular details of major joints, MR arthrography appears to be wavering in popularity, decreasing 'drastically' at some institutions.

Brain scans offer more objective judgement than jurors, study suggests

Could findings from neuroimaging replace juror verdicts in trademark infringement trials? 

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Lawyer accidentally shot by own gun in MRI suite dies of his injuries

On Jan. 16, lawyer Leandro Mathias de Novaes was wearing a registered firearm on his waistband while assisting his mother in the MRI suite when the scanner’s powerful magnet pulled the gun away from his body.

#longcovid #covidlonghauler

New imaging data offers 'positive' news for COVID long haulers

New imaging data indicates that the effects of long COVID may begin to dwindle over time, offering hope for those suffering from the long-term ramifications of the virus. 

Childhood exposure to 'toxic stress,' racial disparities shows up on MRI

Childhood adversity alters regions of the brain responsible for processing threats, according to a new neuroimaging study. 

Radiologist testifies on behalf of defense in murder trial

The neuroradiology specialist offered insight into the imaging findings of a 33-year-old man who is charged with two counts of premeditated first-degree murder. 

#obesity #alzheimersdisease #alzheimersresearch #neuroimaging #brainMRI

Obesity and Alzheimer's look similar on brain imaging, cause comparable neurodegeneration

New data suggest that both obesity and Alzheimer's can cause excess grey matter cortical thinning. 

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Large VA trial could change how patients are screened for liver cancer

Researchers involved in the new study propose that abbreviated MRI protocols could offer more accurate assessments of liver lesions than ultrasound. 

Around the web

Positron, a New York-based nuclear imaging company, will now provide Upbeat Cardiology Solutions with advanced PET/CT systems and services. 

The nuclear imaging isotope shortage of molybdenum-99 may be over now that the sidelined reactor is restarting. ASNC's president says PET and new SPECT technologies helped cardiac imaging labs better weather the storm.

CMS has more than doubled the CCTA payment rate from $175 to $357.13. The move, expected to have a significant impact on the utilization of cardiac CT, received immediate praise from imaging specialists.

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