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.

New GBCA uses 60% less gadolinium
Bayer’s latest contrast agent is proving its potential in clinical trials as a promising alternative to agents with higher gadolinium content.
Payment incentives fail to push physicians toward MRI surveillance of low-risk prostate cancer
BCBS of Michigan has sought to push urologists away from aggressive treatment for low-risk cancer, offering a payment perk to shift their approach.
Imaging leaders share 7 key considerations for remote scanning programs
A new AHRA report provides an in-depth overview of concerns related to remote operations, highlighting everything from safety issues to regulatory oversight.
PHOTO GALLERY: Medical imaging technology at RSNA 2024
Take a virtual tour around the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) meeting to see the sights and new technologies displayed across the vast exhibit hall floors.
Nearly $800,000 settlement offered to family of man who died during MRI exam
The patient, who was being cared for in the ICU, was not accompanied or monitored by nursing staff during his exam, despite being sedated.

New GBCA uses 60% less gadolinium

Bayer’s latest contrast agent is proving its potential in clinical trials as a promising alternative to agents with higher gadolinium content.

Payment incentives fail to push physicians toward MRI surveillance of low-risk prostate cancer

BCBS of Michigan has sought to push urologists away from aggressive treatment for low-risk cancer, offering a payment perk to shift their approach.

technologist remote scanning Philips Radiology Operations Command Center ROCC

Imaging leaders share 7 key considerations for remote scanning programs

A new AHRA report provides an in-depth overview of concerns related to remote operations, highlighting everything from safety issues to regulatory oversight.

PHOTO GALLERY: Medical imaging technology at RSNA 2024

Take a virtual tour around the Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) meeting to see the sights and new technologies displayed across the vast exhibit hall floors.

money court scale of justice ruling legal settlement

Nearly $800,000 settlement offered to family of man who died during MRI exam

The patient, who was being cared for in the ICU, was not accompanied or monitored by nursing staff during his exam, despite being sedated.

RSNA attendees through bore of the new release Philips CT 5300 scanner at RSNA 2024. Three new CT systems were released at RSNA that included numerous AI enhancements. Photo by Dave Fornell. #RSNA #RSNA24 #RSNA2024

Key takeaways from RSNA 2024 for AI, CT, MRI and the radiology staffing shortage

Several key trends were evident at the Radiological Society of North America 2024 meeting, including new CT and MR technology and evolving adoption of artificial intelligence.

Siemens Healthineers inks 10-year, $105M imaging value partnership with large medical center

The deal is with the Ohio State Wexner Medical Center, covering equipment purchases and consulting services.

technologist MRI rad tech radiologic radiology

CMS approves new MRI standards related to remote scanning

Accrediting body IAC said revisions help imaging facilities ensure the safe delivery of MRIs, including when key personnel are located off-site.

Around the web

Health Imaging

Nearly $800,000 settlement offered to family of man who died during MRI exam

The patient, who was being cared for in the ICU, was not accompanied or monitored by nursing staff during his exam, despite being sedated.

Cardiovascular Business

Global shortage of nuclear imaging isotopes may be over

The nuclear imaging isotope shortage of molybdenum-99 may be over now that the sidelined reactor is restarting. ASNC's president says PET and new SPECT technologies helped cardiac imaging labs better weather the storm.

Cardiovascular Business

‘A huge win’: CMS significantly increases Medicare payments for cardiac CT

CMS has more than doubled the CCTA payment rate from $175 to $357.13. The move, expected to have a significant impact on the utilization of cardiac CT, received immediate praise from imaging specialists.