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.

Nearly half of patients surveyed believe MRI exposes individuals to ionizing radiation

Another 36% think that both magnetic resonance imaging and computed tomography use the same technology to create diagnostic images.

Toddler suffers second degree burns from an MRI and no one knows why

The toddler was diagnosed with a contact burn and her parents are seeking answers.

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Use of CT angiography has surged in recent years, with a corresponding drop in MRI

Ease of access, lower cost, and shorter scan time, especially for emergent clinical indications such as acute stroke, all may be fueling CTA volumes.

Advocates warn of supply chain 'crisis’ that could hamper MRI availability

The administration is reportedly mulling a sale of the Federal Helium Reserve System, a move that could hinder the flow of helium to imaging providers.

Vanderbilt University Medical Center sign

Vanderbilt scores $3.2M NIH grant to analyze MRI's role in improving epilepsy surgery

The five-year grant builds upon a growing body of research to better identify patients who would benefit from surgical interventions.

cannabis use disorder marijuana joint weed smoking

Scientists got mice high to study the 'munchies'

The brains of mice exposed to vaporized cannabis light up when anticipating food, new imaging research shows.

Private equity firm HealthEdge invests in leading provider of teleradiology services

Radsource was founded in 2001 and employs 25 fellowship-trained radiologists, handling subspecialized orthopedic and neurological MRI interpretations.

System that makes brain and spinal surgeries more precise cleared by FDA

With the help of a CT or MR image, the SmartFrame OR and its ClearPointer optical navigation wand together provide guidance for instrument placement during neurological procedures.

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