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.

AI turns low-quality MRI scans into helpful heart images
A team of biomedical engineers, radiologists and cardiologists has developed a new AI model capable of restoring low-quality cardiac MRI scans.
New AI-enabled, helium-free MRI system earns FDA clearance
The scanner requires just 0.7 liters of liquid helium for cooling—a fraction of the more than 1,500 liters standard systems need to operate safely.
Low dose GBCA effective, safe for pediatric imaging
Although gadopiclenol is approved for adults and children ages 2 and older, there is limited data on its use in the pediatric population.
Bayer seeks FDA approval for gadoquatrane, its latest low-dose GBCA
The investigational agent uses 60% less gadolinium without sacrificing image quality, according to recent clinical trial findings.
Signs of Alzheimer's evident on imaging up to 15 years prior to symptom onset in Down syndrome population
By identifying these structural changes prior to the onset of symptomatic neurodegeneration, providers may be able to initiate preventive therapies sooner.

Over the Shoulder Shot CT Brain Scan Images

Lower shift volumes lead to significantly fewer errors for neuroradiologists

When case volumes climb to 67-90 studies, error rates were 226% higher than those tackling 19 or fewer cases during their shift, experts reported.

State’s largest insurer lifts prior authorization requirement for MRI, steers patients to single provider

Blue Cross and Blue Shield of Vermont recently announced the new partnership with Open MRI, noting that it provides exams four times cheaper than other facilities.

AI-enhanced music used to ease anxiety during an MRI

HealthTunes is a nonprofit that produces artificial intelligence-powered music to create a soothing effect.

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.

Medicare data stethoscope healthcare trends graphs finance financials

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.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

AI turns low-quality MRI scans into helpful heart images

New AI-enabled, helium-free MRI system earns FDA clearance

Low dose GBCA effective, safe for pediatric imaging

Bayer seeks FDA approval for gadoquatrane, its latest low-dose GBCA

Signs of Alzheimer's evident on imaging up to 15 years prior to symptom onset in Down syndrome population