MRI BRACHIAL PLEXUS

MRI Brachial Plexus Overview

 Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of Brachial Plexus is an imaging technique that is undertaken considering its merit of being non-invasive and does not involve the use of ionizing radiations. Instead, it utilizes a strong magnetic field alongside radio waves. The MRI brachial plexus produces detailed images of the brachial plexus, which is essentially a collection of nerves that emanates from the spinal cord, and it is responsible for the muscular and sensory functions of the shoulder, arm, and hand. 

What is an MRI Brachial Plexus? 

Through a combining methodology of employing magnetic fields and radio waves alongside computers, An MRI Brachial Plexus can create very detailed images of bones, nerves, muscles, and blood vessels of the body region in consideration, which is the brachial plexus. This imaging technique is meant to assist physicians in diagnosing and treating disorders within that region. To produce images, the MRI machine possesses a powerful magnet that aligns the body’s hydrogen atoms. The machine does produce signals from these atoms and subsequently uses them to construct images of the brachial plexus. 

Types of MRI Brachial Plexus 

Below is a list of the different types of MRI Brachial Plexus: 

1. Basic MRI: This is the most popular form of MRI. A powerful magnetic field and radio waves are used to take images of the brachial plexus. 

2. MRI with contrast: This subtype of MRI augments specific structures within the brachial plexus utilizing a contrast material. 

3. Diffusion-weighted Imaging: This subtype of MRI implements a particular method to observe the change in water molecule movement within the brachial plexus region. 

List of Parameters Considered During the MRI Brachial Plexus

The following parameters are taken into consideration during MRI Brachial Plexus:  

1. The alignment and morphology of the nerves of the brachial plexus  

2. Tumours, cysts and some other pathological structures  

3. The Inflammation or Tumefaction of the brachial plexus nerves and its compression  

4. Blood vessels and the other tissues in that area  

Reasons for Taking an MRI Brachial Plexus

The following pathologies or symptoms MRI Brachial Plexus may be required for:  

1. Injury or Compression of Brachial plexus  

2. Thoracic outlet syndrome with neurovascular compression  

3. Investigating cysts or tumours of brachial plexus  

4. Inflammatory and Autoimmune Disorders  

5. Peripheral neuropathy or damage to nerves  

When and Who needs to Take an MRI Brachial Plexus 

You may be required an MRI Brachial Plexus if you have: 

1. Weakness, numbness, or tingling in your arm or hand 

2. Pain in your shoulder, arm, or hand 

3. Discomfort or limited mobility or stiffness in your shoulder or arm 

4. Trauma or injury to the brachial plexus 

The following types of people may need this test: 

1. Injuries to the brachial plexus 

2. Symptoms associated with thoracic outlet syndrome or brachial plexus compression 

3.Inflammatory or autoimmune disorders such as multiple sclerosis 

4. Tumour or cyst in the brachial plexus 

Benefits of Taking the Test

Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Brachial Plexus

These are the conditions that can be diagnosed with an MRI Brachial Plexus:  

• Thoracic outlet syndrome 
• Tumours or cysts in the brachial plexus 
• Inflammatory or autoimmune disorders 
• Nerve damage or neuropathy 

Preparing for MRI Brachial Plexus

To get ready for an MRI Brachial Plexus, you need to: 

- Take off any metallic or jewel accessory items. 

- Wear makeup or hairpins. 

- Put on easily adjustable hairstyles. 

- Remove all head pins or significant head decorations. 

- Bring to the attention of your doctor all medical ailments you have. 

Pre-requisites 

You don't need to take care of anything in specific beforehand, but for an MRI Brachial Plexus, 

- Clean yourself of any heavy food splatters. 

- Show up no later than half an hour before the scheduled test time. 

Best Time to Take the MRI Brachial Plexus 

- Inform the physician of any metallic pieces left in your body. 

No special deadline is set for these tests, but they are usually done mid-day. 

Eligibility 

It is suggested for people with some symptoms occurring from usage of brachial plexus. 

In some cases, not approved for use like having: 

- Metallic implants like pacemakers. 

- Acute claustrophobia. 

- Some other disorders like kidney disease. 

Procedure for Taking an MRI Brachial Plexus 

Usual steps to do an MRI Brachial Plexus involving: 

1. Change of venue, changing of clothes and metal accessories. 

2. Positioning: The technician will lay you on a table then insert you into the MRI machine. 

3. Imaging: Images of the brachial plexus will be captured by the MRI machine utilizing a powerful magnetic field and radio waves. 

4. A contrast agent may be used to accentuate specific features of the brachial plexus. 

5. The procedure is generally completed within 30 minutes to one hour. 

6. A trained radiologist will analyse the images and send the results to your doctor.  

Cautions Before Taking the Test  

The following should be noted before undergoing the test: 

1. Notify your physician about all medical conditions and allergies that you currently have. 

2. Please take off all metallic accessories and jewellery. 

3. Don't apply makeup or wear hairpins. 

4. Advise your doctor about past surgeries or implants done.