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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FDA OKs MR-conditioning labeling for Abbott MRI pacemaker

A magnetic resonance (MR)-conditioning labeling for Abbott’s Assurity MRI pacemaker and its Tendreil MRI pacing lead received approval by the U.S. Food and Drug Administration.

Put away the calipers: Pfizer increases stake in MRI body measurements

Pfizer has solidified its commitment to a Swedish firm developing an MRI-based body measurement, investing an additional $9 million into the company. Called AMRA, the technology can produce body composition measurements from a six-minute whole-body MRI.  

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Can fMRI scans done prior to antidepressant therapy be beneficial?

Researchers at the University of Illinois at Chicago and the University of Michigan conducted a study with data suggesting that a functional MRI brain scan may be beneficial for patients being considered for antidepressant therapy.

MRI scans on men with suspected prostate cancer could help avoid unnecessary biopsy

According to a study published in The Lancet, men with suspected prostate cancer who undergo MRI first could improve diagnosis and avoid unnecessary biopsy.

Siemens Healthineers and Biogen Announce Agreement to Jointly Develop New MRI Tools for Multiple Sclerosis

Project will explore quantitative MRI metrics for more informed treatment decision making

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Caltech scientists develop way to visualize gene expression using MRI

Scientists from the California Institute of Technology (Caltech) have developed a method to visualize gene expression in cells using magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

MR Theater improves patients experience during scans

Toshiba Medical is giving patient comfort a new definition with its new MR Theater, a virtual experience that allows patients to undergo the exam in a relaxing environment while providing clinicians with high quality images.

Pros and cons of voluntary pre-draft MRIs for MLB draft prospects

As part of the new collective bargaing agreement in Major League Baseball (MLB), the top 50 pitching prospects in each year's draft can voluntarily undergo an MRI scan to provide a clearer background of their health. 

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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.