Latest MRI Technology for Brain Care

How MRI works

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) shows high-resolution images of tissue and blood flow

• High-power magnets align hydrogen molecules in the body
• Radio wave pulses are transmitted into the body to disturb this molecular alignment
• Images are created from new radio signals that are generated when hydrogen molecules return to alignment
• Magnetic field strength is measured in units called "Teslas"

How MRI has evolved over time

• Since the first human scan in 1977, MRI scanners have evolved in speed, convenience and power.
• 7 Tesla provides clearer images than earlier 1.5 or 3 Tesla MRI scanners.
• Most MRI scanners in the U.S. are 1.5 or 3 Tesla units. 7 Tesla is now the most powerful MRI strength available for patient use.

7 Tesla MRI: Higher resolution for greater diagnostic precision

The newest medically-approved MRI scanners are 7 Tesla, which before now were only used for research. As shown in the diagnostic images below, the 7 Tesla MRI offers resolution much higher than the more common 3 Tesla scanners. Greater resolution allows the person's care team to identify subtle abnormalities related to their condition. In some instances, this can improve treatment of the disease.

A higher resolution scan may offer new answers

People with a wide range of neurological issues may benefit from the 7 Tesla MRI. With the help of a doctor, the new scanners may provide new answers for:

• Epilepsy

  Detect abnormalities that may be the source of seizures.

• Brain function

  Assess functional areas of the brain to plan for complex surgery, including the removal of brain tumors.

• Brain aneurysms

  More accurately detect very tiny aneurysms.

• Degenerative and demyelinating disorders

  More clearly identify multiple sclerosis or amyloid angiopathy.

• Trauma and concussion

  More accurately detect even the slightest brain bleeding from head injury.

• Brain vascular malformations

  Detect and more accurately characterize abnormal blood vessels in the brain.

Source: MayoClinic.org