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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New miniature MRI sensor can detect electric currents, light in the brain

Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT) researchers have developed a minimally invasive MRI sensor that can detect electrical currents and light produced by luminescent proteins.

At ASTRO, Siemens Healthineers Debuts RT Pro Edition for MAGNETOM Sola for Aid in MRI Radiation Therapy Planning

At the 60th annual meeting of the American Society for Radiation Oncology (ASTRO), Oct. 21-24 at the Henry B. Gonzalez Convention Center in San Antonio, Siemens Healthineers unveils the MAGNETOM RT Pro edition for MAGNETOM Sola – a version of the company’s new 1.5 Tesla (1.5T) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner that is designed for assistance in radiation therapy (RT) treatment planning. In addition to BioMatrix technology, which addresses patients’ anatomical and physiological differences to overcome unwanted exam variability, the new scanner includes hardware and software that supports optimal treatment planning.

1.5T MRI scanner from Siemens Healthineers gains FDA clearance

The FDA has approved Siemens Healthineers’ MAGNETOM Sola, a 1.5 Tesla MRI scanner that utilizes the company's BioMatrix technology.

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MRI-based carotid artery measurements improve CVD risk assessment

MRI wall thickness measurements of a patient’s carotid arteries improves the quality of cardiovascular disease risk assessment, according to a new study published in Radiology.

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Siemens Healthineers names new VP of US MR business management

Siemens Healthineers announced this week that Jane Kilkenny is the company’s new vice president of U.S. magnetic resonance (MR) business management.

Minimally invasive autopsy combines MRI, CT, biopsy to improve postmortem diagnoses

A minimally invasive autopsy can detect a person’s cause of death as well as a conventional autopsy, according to a new study published by Radiology. They can also result in a more helpful postmortem diagnosis.

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New MRI research could help specialists diagnose brain diseases

Using MRI, researchers at the Washington University School of Medicine in St. Louis have devised a technique that reveals the type and number of brain cells present. They can also detect where cells have been lost through injury and disease.

Researchers see value in performing MRI scans following a TBI

Performing MRI scans within one month of a traumatic brain injury (TBI) can yield important information about the patient’s neurocognitive and psychiatric health, according to research published in Journal of Affective Disorders.

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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.

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.