As modern medical technology continues to develop, patients continue to reap the benefits that it provides. Improvements to the radiological field have made accurate and early diagnosis possible, which could potentially save a patient's life. To best understand the importance of an accurate scan, patients should understand that early diagnosis often leads to the early treatment of diseases. When these diseases or conditions are treated early, the patient has a much better chance of recovery. If a disease is not detected or diagnosed until the later stages of the disease, the patient's chances of recovery may be decreased.
Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, is a type of scan that creates images of the patient's body without using x-rays. Radiation is not involved in an MRI scan, making it a unique and popular scan in many scan centers across New Jersey. Patients in New Jersey should look for a scan center that offers them the opportunity to receive a scan using top notch, cutting edge equipment. As is true of the entire medical industry, technology in the radiological field is constantly being improved upon, so patients should look for a center that provides the latest and most proven scans so that radiologists may receive clear images of the body.
A T2 scan may be used to scan a patient's brain. This type of scan will produce about 20 images of the brain, giving radiologists the most thorough look possible. The T2 scan is capable of detecting abnormalities in the patient's brain of 5mm and larger. With a brain scan, physicians are able to ascertain information about the patient's brain quicker than if they physically examine the brain or perform laboratory tests. This makes a brain scan a popular option for patients and doctors alike.
During the brain scan, the patient is asked to lie down on a table as the table moves into a tunnel where the images are taken. The patient will be asked to hold their breath at points throughout the scan to obtain the best possible images. This scan takes about 5 to 10 minutes and patients are not exposed to radiation at any point throughout the scan.
An injection of contrast material may be required for certain patients. This helps to enhance the visibility of some tissues and blood vessels in the brain, giving radiologists a clearer picture of the patient's brain.
Most patients experience no complications during or after an MRI scan. However, patients who have had pacemakers, implanted insulin pumps, aneurysm clips, vascular coils and filters, heart valves, ear implants or surgical staples and wires should not receive an MRI scan, and should inform their doctor beforehand.
An MRI scan is used to detect brain tumors and strokes. An MRI scan may also help to diagnose multiple sclerosis. This scan may also be used to follow the progress of head traumas, bleeding in the brain or tumors of the pituitary. A brain scan may also be helpful in detecting masses on the back of the eyes or ears as well.
Patients in New Jersey should discuss the possible uses of an MRI brain scan and if the scan may be helpful or necessary for their individual case. Patients may undergo a brain scan every two or three years, although some patients may be required to undergo a brain scan every three to six months to follow up if an abnormality or disease has been detected. As always, a doctor or radiologist will have further information about the uses of an MRI brain scan.
Learn more about MRI Brain Scans in Freehold, New Jersey.
