MRI of the Brain

An MRI of the brain is one of the most detailed imaging studies available for evaluating the brain and surrounding structures. Using a powerful magnetic field and radio waves instead of ionizing radiation, brain MRI produces highly detailed images that help physicians diagnose a wide range of neurological conditions, injuries, and abnormalities. MRI is often the preferred imaging study when providers need a closer look at the brain's soft tissues.

At Capitol Imaging Services, our experienced MRI team is committed to providing a comfortable outpatient imaging experience while delivering the high-quality images physicians rely on for accurate diagnosis and treatment planning. Many of our centers offer advanced MRI technology designed to improve image quality while helping patients complete their exams as comfortably as possible.

Your healthcare provider may recommend a brain MRI to investigate symptoms or monitor known neurological conditions. An MRI of the brain can assist in evaluating:

• developmental anomalies
• hydrocephalus, a dilatation of fluid spaces within the brain (ventricles)
• infections
• stroke
• brain tumors
• hemorrhage in selected trauma patients
• disorders of the eye and inner ear
• disorders of pituitary gland
• vascular problems, such as an aneurysm, which is a bubble-like expansion of the vessel, arterial occlusion, which is a blockage or venous thrombosis, which is a blood clot within a vein.

An MRI provides exceptional detail of the brain's soft tissues, helping physicians identify abnormalities that may not be visible with other imaging studies. The information gathered during the exam plays an important role in confirming a diagnosis, monitoring disease progression, and guiding the most appropriate treatment plan. Your healthcare provider will review your results and discuss the next steps based on your individual needs.

An MRI of the brain is a painless, noninvasive imaging exam. During your appointment, you will lie on a padded table that moves into the MRI scanner while detailed images of your brain are captured. Because MRI technology is highly sensitive to movement, remaining as still as possible during each imaging sequence is important for producing clear, accurate images. Although some portions of the exam require you to remain motionless for several minutes, there are brief pauses between image acquisitions when you can relax while maintaining your position.

Some patients feel anxious or uncomfortable in an enclosed MRI scanner, particularly if they experience claustrophobia. If you are concerned about the exam, speak with your healthcare provider beforehand. Depending on your situation, a mild sedative may be recommended. If you take a sedative prior to your appointment, you will need someone to drive you to and from the imaging center.

Throughout the examination, you will hear a series of tapping, knocking, or humming sounds as the MRI system acquires images. These sounds are completely normal. To make your experience more comfortable, you will be provided with earplugs or headphones to reduce the noise, and many of our MRI systems offer music during the exam. The scanner is well-lit, ventilated, and monitored by an experienced MRI technologist who can see, hear, and communicate with you at all times using a two-way intercom.

If your physician orders contrast-enhanced imaging, an intravenous (IV) contrast agent may be administered during the exam to provide additional diagnostic detail. You may notice a brief sensation of coolness as the contrast is injected, and mild bruising or tenderness at the IV site is possible afterward. Serious reactions are uncommon, and our staff will monitor you throughout the procedure.

Most MRI of the brain examinations are completed in approximately 30 to 60 minutes, depending on the type of study being performed. Our team is committed to making your visit as comfortable, efficient, and stress-free as possible while providing the high-quality images your physician needs for diagnosis and treatment planning.