Brain/Head MRI - Overview & Technique

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses radio waves and a strong magnetic field rather than x-rays to provide remarkably clear and detailed pictures of internal organs and tissues. This technique has proved very helpful to radiologists in diagnosing tumors of the brain as well as disorders of the eyes and the inner ear. It requires specialized equipment and expertise and allows evaluation of some body structures that may not be as visible with other imaging methods. MRI is the most sensitive exam for brain tumors, strokes and certain chronic disorders of the nervous system such as multiple sclerosis. In addition, it is a useful means of documenting brain abnormalities in patients with dementia and it is commonly used for patients with disease of the pituitary gland.

Head MRI - Alternative Names and Explanations

MR Imaging of the head, magnetic resonance imaging of the head, brain MRI, MRI of the brain, MR imaging of the brain, head MRI, cerebral MRI, cerebral MRA, MR brain, brain MR

Head MRI - Benefits versus Other Diagnostic Tests

• Images of the brain and other head structures are clearer and more detailed than with other imaging methods.
• MRI contrast material is less likely to produce an allergic reaction than the iodine-based materials used for conventional x-rays and CT scanning.
• Exposure to radiation is avoided.
• MRI enables the detection of abnormalities that might be obscured by bone tissue with other imaging methods.
• A variant called MR angiography (MRA) provides detailed images of blood vessels in the brain—oftentimes without the need for contrast material. The risk of an allergic reaction from MRA contrast is extremely low and kidney damage does not occur.
• New MRI systems can depict brain function, and in this way detect a stroke at a very early stage.

MRI of the Brain - Images

MRI of the Brain/Head - Indications, Common Uses, & Positive Findings

MR imaging of the head is performed to help diagnose:

• tumors of the brain.
• developmental anomalies of the brain.
• vascular anomalies of the head (aneurysm for example).
• disorders of the eyes and the inner ear.
• stroke.
• trauma patients (in selected patients).
• disease in the pituitary gland.
• certain chronic disorders of the nervous system, such as multiple sclerosis.
• causes of headache.

Schedule Your Brain MRI Today! 

• If you are looking for professional radiology services at your imaging site/center, call us at 1-800-626-8315 or contact us for a consultation. 

• If you live in Los Angeles, Beverly Hills, Glendale, Mid-Wilshire and need to schedule a radiology examination such as a MRI, CT Scan, Ultrasound, X ray, or PET scan, contact us to schedule an appointment. 

• If you are in search of other things, we're surprisingly resourceful!  Call us 1-800-626-8315 or contact us via our contact form.