MRI Technique Detects Evidence of Cognitive Decline Before Symptoms Appear

What is an MRI? 

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a medical imaging technique that uses powerful magnets, radio waves, and a computer to create detailed images of the inside of the body. It is especially effective at visualising soft tissues, such as the brain, spinal cord, muscles, and organs, which makes it a vital tool in diagnosing a wide range of medical conditions.

Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRI does not use ionising radiation, which makes it a safer option for many patients. Instead, the MRI machine generates a strong magnetic field, which aligns hydrogen atoms in the body. When radio waves are applied, these atoms produce signals that are captured and converted into detailed images by the system’s computer.

This painless, non-invasive procedure is widely used in medicine, particularly in neurology, to assess conditions such as strokes, brain tumours, multiple sclerosis, and spinal injuries.

When is a Brain MRI recommended?

A brain MRI is often recommended when detailed imaging of the brain and surrounding structures is needed to diagnose or monitor various neurological conditions.

• Persistent headaches: evaluates chronic or severe headaches, especially if accompanied by other symptoms such as vision changes or neurological deficits.

• Unexplained seizures: identifies structural abnormalities or brain lesions that may be causing seizures.

• Stroke diagnosis: provides detailed imaging of the brain to detect damage caused by an ischemic or haemorrhagic stroke.

• Multiple sclerosis (MS): assesses plaques or lesions in the brain and spinal cord associated with MS.

• Brain tumours: determines the size, location, and impact of tumours on surrounding brain structures.

• Congenital brain abnormalities: detects structural issues present from birth, such as malformations or developmental delays.

• Brain infections: diagnoses conditions like abscesses, meningitis, or encephalitis with greater precision than a CT scan.

• Pituitary gland disorders: evaluates tumours or abnormalities in the pituitary gland and surrounding areas.

• Cognitive disorders: investigates conditions like Alzheimer’s disease or other forms of dementia by identifying brain shrinkage or changes.

• Aneurysms or vascular malformations: examines blood vessels in detail to detect aneurysms or arteriovenous malformations.

• Hearing and vision problems: investigates inner ear and optic nerve issues, including causes of hearing loss or vision disturbances.

• Traumatic brain injury: assesses soft tissue damage, swelling, or bleeding in cases where CT imaging is inconclusive.

• Hydrocephalus: evaluates abnormal cerebrospinal fluid accumulation and its effect on the brain.

• Spinal cord abnormalities: identifies conditions such as spinal tumours, herniated discs, or inflammation affecting the spinal cord.

• Pre-surgical planning: provides detailed imaging for precise planning before brain or spinal surgeries.

• Unexplained neurological symptoms: investigates symptoms like dizziness, numbness, weakness, or coordination issues.

How does an MRI work? 

An MRI operates by harnessing the power of magnetic fields and radio waves to generate detailed images of the body’s internal structures. At its core, the process begins with a strong magnetic field, which causes hydrogen atoms in the body to align. These hydrogen atoms are abundant in water and fat, making them ideal for imaging soft tissues. 

Once aligned, the MRI machine sends radiofrequency pulses that disrupt this alignment temporarily. As the atoms return to their original state, they emit energy signals, which are detected by the machine’s sensors. These signals are then processed by a computer to create high-resolution, cross-sectional images of the targeted area. 

The ability to adjust the magnetic field and radio pulses allows MRI scans to focus on specific tissues, such as the brain, spinal cord, or joints, producing images with remarkable clarity. This process is entirely non-invasive, does not use radiation, and provides critical insights for diagnosing and monitoring various medical conditions.

What are the benefits of an MRI? 

MRI offers numerous advantages, and is a widely used diagnostic tool in modern medicine. Its ability to provide detailed and accurate images of soft tissues, combined with its safety and versatility, makes it a preferred choice for patients and healthcare providers.

• Non-invasive and painless: MRI is a non-invasive procedure that does not require surgery or the use of radiation, which helps ensure patient safety and comfort.

• Exceptional image clarity: MRI provides highly detailed and precise images, particularly of soft tissues like the brain, muscles, and organs, which are difficult to visualise using other imaging techniques.

• No Ionising Radiation: unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRI uses magnetic fields and radio waves, which helps avoid the risks associated with radiation exposure.

• Versatility: MRI can evaluate various parts of the body, including the brain, spine, joints, and organs, which makes it suitable for diagnosing a wide range of conditions.

• Early detection: MRI’s high sensitivity allows for the early detection of abnormalities, which enables timely intervention and treatment.

• Multiplanar imaging: MRI can produce images in multiple planes (e.g., axial, sagittal, coronal) without repositioning the patient, offering comprehensive views of the targeted area.

• Safety for repeat scans: since it does not use ionising radiation, MRI is a safer option for patients who require multiple scans over time.

What results can I expect? 

When you book an MRI appointment at Siow Neurology, our team ensures that your experience is smooth and stress-free from start to finish. On the day of your scan, our friendly staff will guide you through the preparation process, answer any questions you may have, and ensure your comfort throughout the procedure. 

During the MRI, you can expect a safe and painless experience as our targeted imaging system captures detailed images of the targeted area. Once the scan is complete, our radiologists carefully analyse the results, and a detailed report is prepared. You will receive your results promptly, along with a thorough explanation from your doctor to help you understand the findings and their implications. 

At Siow Neurology, we are dedicated to providing you with clear answers and personalised recommendations to support your health and well-being.

How many MRI sessions are generally needed? 

The number of MRI sessions required depends on the specific medical condition being evaluated and the purpose of the scan. In most cases, a single MRI session is sufficient to diagnose or assess the condition. However, for ongoing treatment or monitoring of chronic conditions, such as multiple sclerosis, brain tumours, or spinal issues, additional MRI scans may be needed at regular intervals to track progress or evaluate the effectiveness of treatment. 

At Siow Neurology, we will advise you on whether follow-up scans are necessary to ensure comprehensive care according to your needs. Book your MRI appointment with Dr Charles Siow today for accurate diagnosis and personalised care.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)