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.

gadolinium, GBCAs

Generic substitute for gadolinium-based contrast agent Gadavist hits the market

The contrast agent, simply called Gadobutrol Injection, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is now available in the United States.

August 9, 2023
 background parenchyma enhancement breast MRI

MRI finding linked to heightened cancer risk among women with very dense breasts

A new AI model helped researchers identify a relationship between background parenchyma enhancement on breast MRI exams and breast cancer risk.

August 9, 2023
artificial intelligence consultation

New-look AI model for imaging results provides its own second opinions

The "dual-view" algorithm is separated into two distinct parts that can learn from one another and catch potential errors. 

August 4, 2023

PROMISE trial results reinforce confidence in new MRI contrast agent

The randomized, double-blinded phase 3 study revealed gadopiclenol to be noninferior to gadobutrol for all qualitative visualization parameters as rated by all blinded readers involved in the trial.

July 20, 2023

Experts argue for the use of MRI in all first-episode psychosis patients

A new meta-analysis revealed that up to 26% of FEP patients display intracranial radiological abnormalities on MRI, some of which can alter clinical management.

July 19, 2023
NIST researchers improve portable MRI

Improving low-field MRI scanners with quantitative data

Researchers at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) are working on developing measurements that will provide better insight into soft tissue properties visualized on portable MRI images. 

July 17, 2023
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New discovery paves the way for copper's entrance into MRI contrast agents

The new discovery contradicts the notion that copper is not suitable for use in contrast media.

July 12, 2023
An international panel of experts recently developed and validated a reporting assessment scoring system that analyzes the location and extent of prostate cancer recurrence. 

Preop prostate MRI findings predict cancer recurrence at rates similar to pathology, analysis shows

Given the similarities in accuracy between pathology results and preoperative imaging, MRI could have a greater role in risk assessments in the future, experts suggested in AJR.

July 6, 2023

Around the web

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. 

SCAI and four other major healthcare organizations signed a joint letter in support of intravascular ultrasound. 

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