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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Neuroimaging not necessary for all patients who present to ED with vertigo

The decision to utilize such scans is challenging for emergency providers, with the condition most often of benign origin, according to new research published in the journal of Emergency Radiology. 

 

 

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New iron-based imaging agent significantly improves brain tumor visualization

Ferumoxytol is used primarily in medications that treat anemia, but the FDA recently cleared it for deployment in brain imaging as well.

ST-RADS scoring system for predicting risk of soft tissue tumor malignancy

Scoring system outperforms standard radiology reports for predicting soft tissue tumor malignancy

The Soft-Tissue Tumor Reporting and Data System (ST-RADS) is an MRI framework that was designed to assess the risk of soft tissue tumors and help providers in managing the finding. 

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Mindfulness improves brain connectivity, MRI data show

Mindfulness-based stress reduction techniques combine meditation, bodily awareness exercises and yoga to temper stress and anxiety. 

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New data on GBCA safety indicate risk of renal complications 'exceedingly low'

Nephrogenic systemic fibrosis is a serious, potentially fatal disease that progressively causes the skin and underlying tissues to harden.

Artificial Intelligence AI in healthcare

MRI data suggest COVID likely affects the neurological health of everyone, even those who fully recover

Even if an individual has fully recovered from COVID-19 and is able to return to their normal routines, the structural and chemical makeup of their brain may not return to its pre-COVID state.

technologist remote scanning Philips Radiology Operations Command Center ROCC

'We've got to set the standard': Imaging leaders want safety at the forefront of remote operations

Perhaps the biggest sticking point in the debate around remote imaging operations relates to the bedside. If a technologist is running the exam remotely, who is tending to patients on-site? 

radiation oncology therapy treatment

Pre-op MRI not necessary for all breast cancer patients, new data suggest

In some cases, it may actually be more beneficial for this group of women to forego the extra scans, as they can lead to additional testing, costs and potentially delays in care.