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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New research argues for MRI in all prostate cancer patients, even those considered low-risk

The study's findings indicate that obtaining a prostate MRI at the time of a patient's initial diagnosis may provide important insight into how cancer will progress over time.

Regularly eating avocados is associated with a reduced risk of cardiovascular disease, according to a new study.

MRI scans show effect of MIND diet on brain health

The MIND diet is a combination of the DASH (Dietary Approaches to Stop Hypertension) and Mediterranean diets.

insurance payer payment insurer

What might reimbursements for proposed MRI safety CPT codes look like?

Prior to the final proposal’s release, the American College of Radiology reached out to CMS to offer its recommendations on payment rates for five out of the six the new codes.

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Spatial patterns on imaging could predict Alzheimer's years before cognitive symptoms emerge

These subtle changes precede greater tissue loss related to cognitive impairment.

Serious MRI accident to sideline scanner for months

The accident occurred earlier in July when a metal stretcher carrying a patient entered the imaging suite.

osseous lesion on MRI.

MRI scoring system could prevent unnecessary biopsy of osseous lesions

Radiation-induced osteitis may not cause clinical symptoms, but its presence often sparks concerns about malignancy.

Facial fillers seen on MRI

Imaging of woman with facial fillers prompts questions about whether they actually dissolve over time

Cosmetic facial fillers made from hyaluronic acid might not dissolve as quickly as previously believed, warns a California plastic surgeon. 

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'A very, very good thing'—CMS proposes reimbursements for providers' efforts to ensure MRI safety

“Before these CPT codes there was no real acknowledgment of the additional burden borne by the providers who accepted these patients."

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Cardiovascular Business
Global shortage of nuclear imaging isotopes may be over

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.

Cardiovascular Business
‘A huge win’: CMS significantly increases Medicare payments for cardiac CT

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.

Cardiovascular Business
FDA clears AI tool that flags signs of heart disease in chest CT scans

The newly cleared offering, AutoChamber, was designed with opportunistic screening in mind. It can evaluate many different kinds of CT images, including those originally gathered to screen patients for lung cancer. 

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