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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An example of cardiac MRI myocardial blood flow reserve (MBFR) imaging. Image courtesy of https://doi.org/10.3390/diagnostics10090679

Imaging group thrilled with new CPT codes for MBFR measurements

The Society for Cardiovascular Magnetic Resonance applauded two new CPT Category III codes for myocardial blood flow reserve (MBFR) assessments.

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‘MRI’ is the most-searched medical term among patients seeking cost information

“CT scan” was the third most-searched term among healthcare consumers, and “ultrasound” was No. 4, according to Fair Health. 

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Radiology practice SimonMed doubling centers offering full-body MRI scans amid ‘exponential’ demand growth

The private equity-backed provider first launched SimonOne nationwide in summer 2023, capitalizing on increased interest from startup firms and celebrities. 

Ezra

Whole-body MRI startup Ezra raises $21M, eyes 50 new locations in 2024

Supported by AI, Ezra offers a 60-minute, full-body MRI exam for $1,950, allowing patients to seek out health concerns before they surface. 

Accelerated MRI sequence helps radiologists assess heart disease patients without breath-holding

French imaging experts utilized an investigational, free-breathing, short-axis imaging sequence that deployed deep learning to reconstruct images. 

Medical malpractice gavel diagnostic error mistake stethoscope

Patient sues SimonMed Imaging claiming tech injected her with Valium instead of contrast media prior to MRI

Plaintiff attorneys also allege the sedative was administered in an excessive dose, forcing the woman to go back on anti-seizure meds and delay her fertility treatment. 

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Inconsistent imaging: Radiologists letting personal preferences influence decision-making

There is significant variation from one radiologist to the next in suggesting follow-up head and neck imaging, Harvard experts detailed in AJR. 

SimonMed

Private equity-backed radiology provider SimonMed opens 6 new imaging centers

New additions balloon the Scottsdale, Arizona-based radiology practice's total number of locations to 170, spanning 11 states. 

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Around the web

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.

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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