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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Brain MRIs reveal the costly price of chronic poor sleep habits

New research suggests that individuals who report even moderate sleep disturbances show accelerated brain age on imaging compared to their peers who have overall healthy sleep habits. 

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MRI could be 'powerful tool' for guiding surgery decisions in patients with rectal cancer

“No one wants to get surgery if they can avoid it. Now we have a powerful tool to help patients and their doctors predict who would benefit from surgery after initial chemotherapy and radiation."

ezra

Imaging startup Ezra launches ‘world’s most advanced longevity scan’ at $5,995 a pop

“Ezra Blueprint” incorporates CT and MRI and is designed in partnership with “longevity pioneer and rejuvenation athlete” Bryan Johnson. 

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MRIs reveal menopausal hormone therapy's impact on the brain

It has long been believed that hormone therapy could have neuroprotective effects on the brain. However, new data suggests that this isn't the case for every woman.

Ezra

Whole-body MRI startup Ezra expands service in partnership with Princeton Radiology

The two will broaden their reach into the Philadelphia area, offering an “end to end” screening platform that monitors for cancer and other conditions. 

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AI software that boosts detection of small brain lesions gains FDA clearance

The software is a collaboration between Bracco Diagnostics, a subsidiary of Bracco Imaging, and Subtle Medical, Inc.

Commercially available AI significantly improves prostate MRI report consistency

By reducing report variability, the software could help decrease unnecessary biopsies in patients with questionable lesions.

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Bilingual people have more efficient brains, imaging study shows

Researchers examined the brains of bilingual and monolingual people using fMRI, only to find improved communication between isolated regions in those who learn a second language at a young age.