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.

Thumbnail

Men at risk for prostate cancer could be forgoing necessary imaging due to climbing out-of-pocket costs

Experts are calling for insurance companies to provide full coverage for imaging and other necessary exams, if indicated by an abnormal prostate cancer screening test.

Thumbnail

AI tool's supplemental MRI recs help detect 4 times more breast cancers than density measures

What’s more, many of the cancers detected were invasive or multifocal, making their detection more timely. 

Thumbnail

MRI scans show age-specific changes in the brains of kids with ADHD

Between the ages of 8 and 12, MRI scans of children with ADHD show significantly lower cerebral blood flow in regions of the brain known to be related to attention, motor skills, executive function and impulsivity.

FDA warning alert exclamation computer

FDA issues update on MRI coil recall

In May, Philips alerted its customers to the safety concern, cautioning that its Sense XL Torso (1.5T and 3T) coils could overheat and cause patients to sustain serious burns.

Thumbnail

New MRI study contradicts prior research linking dementia with benzodiazepine use

There has long been speculation suggesting that chronic benzo consumption could be a precursor to conditions that deteriorate neurological function.

ping pong improve brain function

Playing ping pong improves brain connectivity

New research highlights key MRI findings related to connectivity and white matter integrity in the brains of athletes taking part in competitive table tennis.

Thumbnail

MRI safety concerns prompt FDA to issue recall for series of ventilators

The Class I recall affects the ZOLL 731 Series Ventilator family, including the AEV, EMV+, and Eagle II models.

Deep learning application spots acute ischemic stroke in less than 30 seconds on MRI

What’s more, the application’s performance was accurate, even when fewer scanning sequences were utilized.

Around the web

The two companies aim to improve patient access to high-quality MRI scans by combining their artificial intelligence capabilities.

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.