MRI is one of the most accurate imaging tests, so can MRI of the brain be done? Then how does that work?
This article provides information regarding brain MRIs:
Magnetic resonance imaging of the brain
MRI of the brain is a safe and painless test that uses a magnetic field and radio waves to produce detailed images of the brain and brainstem that are clearer and more detailed than other methods. Doctors can perform a more thorough examination of the head and identify diseases thanks to these detailed images.
As opposed to a CT scan, an MRI is safer because it does not involve radiation or x-rays.
The magnet rearranges the hydrogen atoms that are naturally present in the body, and the coils send and receive radio waves that re-align the hydrogen atoms. The magnetic field is created by creating an electric current through a wire coil in the device.
Due to the device's ability to distinguish between normal and abnormal tissues, when the hydrogen atoms return to normal, they release different amounts of energy depending on the type of body tissue they are in.
Without causing any chemical changes in the tissue, the scanner absorbs this energy and uses the information to produce an image.
Reasons to perform an MRI of the brain
MRI is especially helpful for the following conditions because it provides clear images of parts of the brain that X-rays and CT scans cannot reveal:
- detection of a variety of brain disorders, including multiple sclerosis, cysts, tumours, bleeding, deformities, and inflammatory and vascular conditions.
- Evaluation of issues like ongoing headaches, vertigo, and poor or blurred vision.
- finding brain damage brought on by an accident or a stroke.
- diagnosis of pituitary gland and brain stem issues.
Functional magnetic resonance imaging of the brain
Functional MRI is a particular kind of MRI that detects minute variations in blood flow that happen in response to brain activity and is used to:
- Brain mapping
Knowing which region of the brain is responsible for key processes like thought, speech, movement, and sensation is known as the functional anatomy of the brain.
- Functional magnetic resonance imaging of the brain is used to assess the effects of stroke and other diseases on brain function, including degenerative conditions like Alzheimer's disease.
- Planning for other procedures: Functional brain imaging aids in the planning and decision-making process for other procedures such as radiation, surgery, or invasive brain treatment.
Preparing for an MRI of the brain
Inform your doctor or the technician the following prior to the brain MRI:
- Tell the doctor or technologist if there is a chance of pregnancy.
- Tell the doctor if you suffer from claustrophobia , the doctor can give you a sedative before the scan.
- Remove all jewelry, accessories, credit cards, hearing aids, hairpins, and zippers prior to shooting.
- Ask your doctor if you have had cochlear implants, pacemakers, medication and insulin pumps, or dental fillings.
- Tell your doctor if you have recently had surgery or had joints and prostheses or have metal or shrapnel in your body.
- Tell your doctor if you have tattoos, as some inks contain metal.
- Take your medications and food as usual unless you are told otherwise.