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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How MRI scans can dramatically improve prostate cancer diagnosis

Multiparametric MRI (mpMRI) scans and targeted biopsies can improve the detection of clinically significant prostate cancer, according to new research published in JAMA Network Open.

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FDA shares new guidance document on MRI safety

The FDA has published a new guidance document focused on making improvements to the overall safety of MR environments and MRI-related medical device labeling.

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AI shows potential to differentiate pancreatic diseases on MR images

Deep learning may be able to help specialists differentiate pancreatic diseases on MR images, according to new findings published in Diagnostic and Interventional Imaging.

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How consistent is the technical quality of breast MRI exams?

The technical quality of breast MRI examinations in the United States is inconsistent, according to new findings published in Academic Radiology.

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Background parenchymal enhancement leads to abnormal breast MRI interpretations

High levels of background parenchymal enhancement (BPE) can have a negative impact on the diagnostic quality of breast MRI interpretations, according to new findings published in Academic Radiology.

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Why magnetic eyelashes should not be worn during MRI scans

Wearing magnetic eyelashes during an MRI scan can reduce image quality and put the patient at risk, according to new findings published in the American Journal of Roentgenology.

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Bayer’s Gadavist injection cleared by FDA for cardiac MR in adults

Bayer announced Monday, July 15, that its Gadavist (gadobutrol) injection has been approved by the FDA for cardiac MR imaging to assess myocardial perfusion and late gadolinium enhancement in patients with suspected coronary artery disease (CAD).

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How pMRI after a DCIS diagnosis can improve patient care

Preoperative breast MRI (pMRI) can improve the surgical management of patients with newly diagnosed pure ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS), according to a new study published in Academic Radiology.