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.

Prostate MRI on Sectra PACS, HIMSS23.

MRI scans deliver value as a primary screening tool for prostate cancer

PSA tests are linked to certain limitations when used for prostate cancer screening. Could MRI scans provide an alternative path? 

September 14, 2023
Product Recall

FDA announces recall of Abbott neurostimulation devices after MRI-related issues lead to 73 injuries

The new recall, which includes more than 155,000 implantable pulse generators, is due to ongoing issues with the devices being unable to exit MRI mode and return to normal use. 

September 14, 2023
The IGAR surgical robot. Image courtesy of Insight Medbotics.

FDA clears new MRI-compatible robot for breast biopsies

The newly cleared device from Insight Medbotics represents a collaboration between robotics experts and surgeons. 

September 14, 2023
arrested.jpg

Nebraska man attempts to escape police custody during MRI

The man was in custody after leading police on a high-speed chase the day before.

September 1, 2023
Motion-Corrected MRI Scan

MRI results affected by movement? MIT researchers have an AI-powered solution

An MRI's sensitivity to movement during scans often leads to image artifacts, risking misdiagnoses and redundant scans. But a new deep learning model may be able to compensate.

August 25, 2023
U.S. News & World Report children’s hospitals cardiology heart surgery

Imagers trim pediatric sedation and anesthesia over 11-year period

Continued improvement in imaging techniques and development of clinical practice guidelines may further reduce the need, experts noted. 

August 18, 2023
gadolinium, GBCAs

Generic substitute for gadolinium-based contrast agent Gadavist hits the market

The contrast agent, simply called Gadobutrol Injection, has been approved by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration and is now available in the United States.

August 9, 2023
 background parenchyma enhancement breast MRI

MRI finding linked to heightened cancer risk among women with very dense breasts

A new AI model helped researchers identify a relationship between background parenchyma enhancement on breast MRI exams and breast cancer risk.

August 9, 2023

Around the web

Automated AI-generated measurements combined with annotated CT images can improve treatment planning and help referring physicians and patients better understand their disease, explained Sarah Jane Rinehart, MD, director of cardiac imaging with Charleston Area Medical Center.

Two advanced algorithms—one for CAC scores and another for segmenting cardiac chamber volumes—outperformed radiologists when assessing low-dose chest CT scans. 

"Gen AI can help tackle repetitive tasks and provide insights into massive datasets, saving valuable time," Thomas Kurian, CEO of Google Cloud, said Tuesday. 

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