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.

The imaging iodine contrast shortage is delaying procedures and causing rationing at hospitals. impact is it having on hospitals and the tough decisions that are being made to triage patients to determine if they will get a contrast CT scan or an interventional or surgical procedure requiring contrast. Photo by Dave Fornell

ChatGPT shows 'significant promise' in guiding contrast-related decisions

This could be especially helpful when timely clinical decisions relative to the use of a contrast agent need to be made.

Actionable tips imaging departments can implement to reduce energy consumption

With the earth’s warmest March on record in 175 years barely in the rearview mirror, a team of radiology experts says medical imaging must step up its sustainability efforts. 

Image Wisely rolls out new MRI safety course following slew of accidents

The course’s release follows numerous reported MRI accidents that have occurred in recent years, many that resulted in severe injury and some that were even fatal.

Alzheimer’s imaging experts to assess utility, efficiency of Hyperfine’s Swoop system

Is portable MRI suitable for finding abnormalities in the brains of patients receiving new amyloid-targeting therapy for Alzheimer’s disease? Clinical researchers are about to find out.

microstructural differences present on diffusion tensor imaging of brains of individuals with ASD

Experts spot structural differences on brain imaging of individuals with autism

New research could offer further insight into exactly what causes individuals on the spectrum to process information differently.

Good news for sports fans — MRI exams show how watching sports improves well-being

Time to dust off those foam fingers because watching sports might actually improve connectivity in certain areas of the brain, new study suggests.

Kim Tzoumakas

Private equity-backed radiology provider Rayus partners with AI startup to launch nationwide whole-body MRI offering

Ezra charges $950 to $2,500 for exams of healthy individuals and analyzes them with its FDA-cleared software to diagnose cancer and other conditions.  

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PET/MRI may reduce unnecessary prostate biopsies by 83%

A study out of China found most patients biopsied for prostate lesions did not have clinically significant cancer, calling the clinical ranking systems into question.