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.

FDA clears Siemens Healthineers' Biograph One PET/MR system

FDA clears new PET/MRI combo system from Siemens Healthineers

The Biograph One is the company's second-generation PET/MRI combo scanner—its first in 14 years.

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Routine MRI measurements as accurate as invasive testing for heart failure

New findings suggest that measurements of blood oxygen acquired via T2 mapping during routine MRI scans could provide the same information on heart health as catheterization procedures.  

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Some patients more prone to MRI motion, with key implications for scheduling, procedure prep

Movement during these exams can have downstream consequences such as diagnostic uncertainty, higher costs from repeat scans, and delayed clinical decision-making. 

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MRI findings link fat distribution to risk of cognitive decline

Not all fat is created equal, and some specific types carry more neurological consequences than others, according to new research. 

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Radiology practice SimonMed Imaging launches new ‘longevity screening’ division

The elective exams have previously been delivered under the SimonONE brand and will be folded into the rest of the radiology practice for greater service integration.

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MRI findings reveal how spaceflight changes the brain

New data suggest that spending an extended period of time in a zero-gravity environment causes the brain to become somewhat displaced.

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US-based whole-body MRI provider Ezra expands nationwide in UK

Recently acquired by longevity startup Function Health, Ezra is now opening six new imaging sites across the country.

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Vista AI secures $30M in new funding, eyes expansion into remote MR imaging operations

The company currently has an FDA-cleared cardiac MRI platform but is looking to further its reach into other anatomies, such as the brain, prostate and spine.