Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Head

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging), Head

What To Think About

• Access to MRI scanners is not available in all areas. If you need an MRI scan, you may need to travel to a regional centre.
• Sometimes your MRI results may be different because you were tested at a different medical centre or earlier test results are not available to compare to the new test findings.
• Several special MRI methods have been developed to look at the brain.
  • Magnetic resonance spectroscopy shows changes in brain chemistry that may occur in certain areas of the brain. These changes may help show diseases that affect the brain.
  • Magnetic resonance angiogram (MRA) is a special MRI method that can be used to study blood vessels. Dye may be injected into the blood vessels so blood flow can be seen clearly. MRA can also be used to show the speed and direction of blood flow. For more information, see the medical test Magnetic Resonance Angiogram (MRA).
  • Diffusion-perfusion imaging shows the water content and character of the brain. This method can give an early diagnosis of a stroke and may help predict the outcome of stroke. It can also be used to find tumours or inflammation of the brain.
  • Contrast material that contains gadolinium may cause a serious skin problem (called nephrogenic fibrosing dermopathy) in people with kidney failure. Tell your doctor if you have serious kidney disease before having an MRI scan.

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Author:	Jan Nissl, RN, BS	Last Updated: March 9, 2007
Medical Review:	Kenneth B. Sutherland, CD, BSc, MD, FRCPC - Diagnostic Radiology Paul D. Traughber, MD - Radiology
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