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.

'Desktop' MRI brings physics education to the classroom
The tabletop scanner provides students with more hands-on opportunities to learn about the processes that drive the modality’s imaging capabilities.
MRI-first approach could allow many to safely forego prostate biopsy
New findings indicate as many as 96% of men with positive PSA labs who show insignificant or slow-growing cancer on MRI can safely forego biopsy for three or more years.
For the first time, researchers find a way to spot early signs of pancreatic cancer on routine MRI
Pancreatic cancer is one of the deadliest cancers, with a five-year survival rate of only 44% if caught early, dropping down to 3% if it metastasizes. This is largely due to its ability to elude detection.
New MRI technology improves imaging of metallic joint replacements
The technology is so promising that it is being integrated into GE Healthcare’s MRI scanners so that providers can conduct more thorough evaluations of how these implants hold up over time.
How gaming addiction affects brain activity, according to new MRI data
Over time, the brain's reward system may become less responsive to standard rewards in individuals with gaming addiction.

Are MR arthrograms on their way out?

Once the go-to exam for gaining intra-articular details of major joints, MR arthrography appears to be wavering in popularity, decreasing 'drastically' at some institutions.

February 13, 2023

Brain scans offer more objective judgement than jurors, study suggests

Could findings from neuroimaging replace juror verdicts in trademark infringement trials?

February 9, 2023

Lawyer accidentally shot by own gun in MRI suite dies of his injuries

On Jan. 16, lawyer Leandro Mathias de Novaes was wearing a registered firearm on his waistband while assisting his mother in the MRI suite when the scanner’s powerful magnet pulled the gun away from his body.

February 9, 2023

New imaging data offers 'positive' news for COVID long haulers

New imaging data indicates that the effects of long COVID may begin to dwindle over time, offering hope for those suffering from the long-term ramifications of the virus.

February 7, 2023

Childhood exposure to 'toxic stress,' racial disparities shows up on MRI

Childhood adversity alters regions of the brain responsible for processing threats, according to a new neuroimaging study.

February 6, 2023

Radiologist testifies on behalf of defense in murder trial

The neuroradiology specialist offered insight into the imaging findings of a 33-year-old man who is charged with two counts of premeditated first-degree murder.

February 2, 2023