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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Brain MRI volumes dip but acuity leaps, with implications for radiologist staffing

More complicated exams could require additional physician time and effort, Emory University experts detailed in Current Problems in Diagnostic Radiology. 

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COVID-19 infection in pregnant mothers does not harm developing fetuses’ brains

Radiology experts analyzed fetal MRIs from 33 women who contracted the virus while bearing a child, sharing their results at RSNA21. 

Athletes with COVID-19 may require heart MRI screening for myocarditis, new data suggest

Cardiac imaging produced a more than sevenfold increase in detection of such heart inflammation, according to research presented at RSNA21. 

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Second review of inpatient MRI orders cuts avoidable hospital days while saving $200,000

New York City providers strived to convert 15% of inpatient orders over to the outpatient side using automation to help flag medically appropriate cases. 

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When patients are satisfied, outpatient MR imaging volumes increase, new study finds

With rising consumerism in healthcare, experts believe radiology leaders must pay attention to the “economic consequences” of patient satisfaction. 

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Study unearths significant disparities in use of prostate MRI after an elevated PSA blood test

Black and Asian patients are 24% less likely to undergo imaging after a prostate-specific antigen screening test indicated one may be necessary. 

Star New York Mets pitcher says MRI positioning aggravated forearm strain

Four-time All-Star Jacob deGrom spent 60 minutes on his stomach with elbow raised above his head and believes the awkward angle aggravated his injury. 

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Whole-body MRI paired with artificial intelligence detects Type 2 diabetes with no additional data

Scientists used machine learning to identify diabetes-related variables from nearly 2,400 T1-weighted, magnetic resonance imaging datasets. 

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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.

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‘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.

Cardiovascular Business
GE HealthCare moves PET/CT scanner production to United States

The all-in-one Omni Legend PET/CT scanner is now being manufactured in a new production facility in Waukesha, Wisconsin.

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