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.

Radiologists launch CoreViva, another elective whole-body MRI startup
Co-founders Alan Alexander, MD, MSc, and Brian Tsui, MD, officially kickstarted the company this month after two years in “stealth” mode.
10-second brain MRI scans possible with newly FDA-cleared deep learning reconstruction software
The artificial intelligence-enabled software offers accelerated acquisition times, improved image resolution and one-click workflows for technologists.
Algorithm accurately predicts dementia risk using a single MRI scan
The tool also can be used to predict a person's brain age and risk for a myriad of other chronic conditions as well.
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.

Deep learning diagnoses disabling neurological condition on MRI in under 1 second

The platform—DystoniaNet—was 98.8% accurate at diagnosing the condition, and with further testing, may soon be in clinics, experts explained recently.

New technique cuts knee MRI scan times in half without damaging diagnostic certainty

That’s according to an investigation out of the University Hospital Cologne in Germany, highlighted in the European Journal of Radiology.

Structured reporting for follow-up multiple sclerosis MRI significantly reduces interpretation times

That’s according to a new investigation out of the Cleveland Clinic, highlighted in Academic Radiology.

Smart shopping: Chicago orthopedic practice knows the value of a good service contract when investing in imaging equipment

Sponsored by Hitachi Healthcare Americas

The Illinois Bone and Joint Institute (IBJI) treats patients in the Chicago area for every orthopedic issue under the sun, from rheumatoid arthritis to total knee replacements, and its 100-plus physicians order thousands of imaging exams on an annual basis.

Thousands of MRI scans help experts understand 500-year-old heart mystery first described by Leonardo da Vinci

Artificial intelligence also played a large role in discovering how this intricate network of muscle fibers can influence health, experts explained in Nature.

Ride-sharing pilot program significantly improves on-time arrivals for MR imaging appointments

The service was particularly popular among the elderly, unemployed and those with government insurance, experts wrote in JACR.

MRI screening women with a family history of breast cancer a cost-effective intervention

Dutch scientists reached their conclusion by conducting an economic evaluation, using a simulator to estimate costs and lives saved across a cohort of 10 million women.

Physicians battle bill that would allow APRNs to order CT scans, MRIs and other advanced imaging

The American Medical Association is asking lawmakers to quash the legislation, concerned it would increase healthcare costs while also threatening the “health and safety of patients."

Magnetic Resonance Imaging

Radiologists launch CoreViva, another elective whole-body MRI startup

10-second brain MRI scans possible with newly FDA-cleared deep learning reconstruction software

Algorithm accurately predicts dementia risk using a single MRI scan

AI turns low-quality MRI scans into helpful heart images

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