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.

GE Signa MRI

GE scores FDA clearance for tool that speeds up MRI scan times to help tackle backlog

In magnetic resonance alone, the Chicago-based corporation estimated that U.S. providers have postponed upward of 5 million scans since the pandemic started. 

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FDA clears ‘world’s first’ ultrawide-bore MR for imaging obese or claustrophobic patients

United Imaging announced the approval on Tuesday, touting its uMR Omega system’s 75-centimeter bore and quick scan times. 

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MRI upgrade helps small-town practice see significant improvements in quality, productivity

Sponsored by Hitachi Healthcare Americas

Prospect, Connecticut, was founded all the way back in 1827, and its citizens take great pride in the city’s gorgeous scenery and deep history. In fact, just one look at Prospect’s motto—“The Best Small Town in Connecticut”—tells you everything you need to know.

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Radiologists should avoid MR imaging COVID-19 patients ‘except where absolutely necessary’

That’s according to new guidance on the deployment of magnetic resonance imaging during the pandemic issued recently by the American College of Radiology. 

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Canon scores FDA clearance for artificial intelligence engine that bolsters MRI quality

The Advanced Intelligent Clear-IQ Engine harnesses deep learning to help radiologists differentiate true magnetic resonance signals from noise. 

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Cigna labels most hospital-based CT, MR imaging ‘not medically necessary’

The nation’s fourth largest private payer detailed a small list of exceptions, including if a patient is less than age 10 or has a contrast agent allergy. 

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Poor MRI quality highlights radiologists’ need to address language barriers

Exams of patients who require a translator appeared to be of “significantly worse” quality, underlining the need to strengthen communication, according to new research in Abdominal Imaging. 

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Artificial intelligence predicts heart attack risk from cardiac MRI for the first time

University College London researchers harnessed this new tool to quickly analyze cardiovascular magnetic resonance images and determine the risk of other adverse events such as stroke.