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.

Imaging shows why music makes us happy
Experts believe their findings could be significant for treating both pain and mental health disorders.
MRI projectile incident likely to result in a 'seven-figure sum' repair bill for hospital
News of an incident is a stark reminder that healthcare workers and patients aren’t the only ones who need to be aware around MRI suites.
Experts may have discovered why some patients are more susceptible to GBCA-related side effects
A new study focuses on the role oxalic acid may play in the body’s ability to eliminate gadolinium after an MRI study.
Radiology groups spar over certificate-of-need application for $1.7M new MRI scanner
Diagnostic Imaging of Southbury recently asked for permission to buy a second MR system, with its first currently operating at 120% capacity.
AI tool has 'untapped potential' for diagnosing and managing multiple sclerosis
The tool extracts brain region and white matter lesion volumes from any MRI of the brain, even less specialized sequences not traditionally used in the diagnosis or management of MS.

ACR updates requirements for on-site staff overseeing contrast administration

A clinician trained to manage reactions should be on-site at any imaging facilities doing contrast studies to maintain patient safety.

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MRI scans on rat brains could lead to new cocaine addiction therapies

A study on rat models reveals how prolonged cocaine use disrupts neural networks responsible for regulating emotions and problem solving.

Cardiac imaging use is skyrocketing, and radiologists are rising to the challenge

Over the course of a decade, the number of CT exams leapt 353% by 2022, while MRI climbed nearly 283%, researchers detailed Wednesday.

Dozens of Indigenous Canadians file lawsuit against two radiologists over undisclosed study

The plaintiffs claim they were imaged for a liver disease study without giving their consent, or learning of the results.

MRI reveals placental oxygenation levels may be linked to fetal brain development

Oxygenation levels not only seem to be a predictor of cortical growth and cognition, but likely childhood behavior as well, the study found.

Class action lawsuit claims radiologists subjected patients to ‘secret’ MRI research

Physician allegedly kept patients in scanners for extra examinations as part of a study evaluating the livers of indigenous peoples.

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MRI shows brain ‘leakage’ that may explain cognitive decline from long COVID

A team from Ireland identified disruptions to the integrity of the blood vessels in the brains of patients experiencing brain fog due to the disease.

Startup that creates avatars via CT, MR images raises $5.4M from radiologists and investors

Paris-based Avatar Medical believes such physician financing demonstrates “strong support” for its medical solution.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Imaging shows why music makes us happy

MRI projectile incident likely to result in a 'seven-figure sum' repair bill for hospital

Experts may have discovered why some patients are more susceptible to GBCA-related side effects

Radiology groups spar over certificate-of-need application for $1.7M new MRI scanner

AI tool has 'untapped potential' for diagnosing and managing multiple sclerosis