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.

Portable MRI specialist Hyperfine announces plans to expand overseas

The move is part of a larger commercial expansion goal to enter four additional countries within the next six months.

University of Utah Health

Worker dies after MRI machine plummets outside local hospital

"We are incredibly saddened to learn that someone tragically died in this incident," said University of Utah Health executive Alison Flynn Gaffney. 

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Pairing faster imaging sequence with deep learning cuts shoulder MRI scan time by 67%

Exams performed using the deep learning-based reconstruction tool also maintained high image quality, experts reported recently.

Goldberg MRI stroke brain

Specialists collaborate to implement ‘game changer’ emergency MRI protocol for wake-up stroke

Up to 27% of acute ischemic strokes occur while an individual is sleeping, making it difficult to discern when the blood blockage occurred.

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MR imaging-guided SABR extends the lives of patients with inoperable pancreatic cancer

Miami Cancer Institute experts found the technique "significantly" prolonged overall survival, sharing their findings at the European Society for Radiotherapy and Oncology 2021 conference.

4D flow MRI has potential role for detecting complications in patients with aortic disease

One Northwestern Medicine researcher said the "landmark" findings take providers one step closer to using the tool for clinical decision making.

Smart Choice MRI

Former executives of now-defunct Smart Choice MRI eye expansion with new imaging center chain

Atlanta-based ImageLink already has 14 locations across Georgia and Ohio, while a 15th just recently opened in Boynton Beach, Florida. 

spine lumbar

Standardizing MRI spine degradation definitions bolsters neuro, musculoskeletal radiologist agreement

Substantial variability in interpretation exists between rad subspecialties and spine clinicians, experts detailed in Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology.