MRI BRAIN+ANGIOGRAM

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) - Brain and Angiogram Overview

An MRI exam of the brain's internal structures entails the use of a potent magnet, radio frequencies, and advanced imaging algorithms in a non-invasive radiology test. MRI - Brain and Angiogram evaluates the blood vessels of the brain, which helps to diagnose various diseases. Patients undergoing this type of examination should remove any metallic appliances like jewellery, spectacles, and clothing with zippers, and inform their doctors about any implants or devices made of metal inside their bodies. 

What is MRI - Brain and Angiogram? 

Two imaging methods are included in MRI - Brain and Angiogram: 

1. Brain MRI: This method produces images of the brain’s anatomy such as the grey and white matter, cerebrospinal fluid, and blood vessels using powerful magnets. 
2. Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA): This procedure examines blood vessels directly, permitting the assessment of vascular pathologies like stenosis, aneurysms, or malformations. 

Within the confines of the MRI machine, potent magnets are used to set the hydrogen protons within the body into alignment and then, disturb them with radio waves to produce signals which are reconstructed into detailed images. 

Types of MRI - Brain and Angiogram 

• Standard Brain MRI: A basic MRI examination of the brain. 
• Contrast-Enhanced Brain MRI: An MRI examination which includes a contrast agent that highlights specific areas of the brain. 
• Functional MRI (fMRI): A test that determines the level of blood flow or oxygen to various regions of the brain to show the areas that are active in brain functions. 

List of Parameters Considered During the MRI - Brain and Angiogram

• The brain anatomy: It includes grey and white matter along with cerebrospinal fluid and blood vessels. 
• Vascular anomalies: Includes stenosis, aneurysms, or any type of malformations.  
• Infection or inflammation signs: Indications of meningitis, encephalitis, or other infectious signs. 

Reasons for Taking an MRI - Brain and Angiogram

• Vascular or ischemic damage evaluation: Assessment of stroke or TIA for potential ischemic areas. 
• Intracranial neoplasm assessment: For diagnosis and evaluation of brain tumours or metastatic lesions. 
• Evaluating vascular conditions: Assess for stenosis, aneurysms, or malformations. 
• Infectious and inflammatory evaluation: To check for changes suggestive of meningitis, encephalitis, or other infections. 

When and Who Needs to Take an MRI - Brain and Angiogram? 

An MRI is best suited for patients who have: 

• Symptoms of a stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA) 
• Headaches, confusion, or even seizures 
• Weakness and numbness, though not paralysis 
• Speech or swallowing difficulties 
• Possible brain infections - meningitis or encephalitis 
• Presence of brain metastasizing tumours or other brain tumours 
• Vascular malformations or aneurysms 
• Head trauma *History of head injury 

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Improved accuracy of clinical diagnosis: MRI - Brain and Angiogram aids in providing detailed images of the brain structures and blood vessels. 
• Tracking treatment effectiveness: The test can assess the change of the condition over time after treatment. 
• Reduced risk of complications: MRI is a non-invasive procedure allowing easier access to the brain. 

Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI - Brain with Angiogram

• Stroke or TIA 
• Brain tumours and metastases 
• Aneurysms and other vascular abnormalities 
• Meningitis or encephalitis 
• Multiple sclerosis 
• Parkinson's disease 

Preparing for the MRI - Brain with Angiogram Scan

• Remove metal objects: Do not wear jewellery, glasses, or clothes with any metal zippers. 
• Alert your physician: Make sure your doctor knows about any metal implants that you may have. 
• Coming in early: Subjects should come in no less than half an hour before their appointments. 

Pre-requisites  

No additional preparations are needed: Although, some patients who have certain medical conditions like diseases of the kidneys or the liver may be required to comply to certain guidelines. 

Best Time to Conduct the Test MRI - Brain with Angiogram 

The exam can be conducted any day anytime, but it is often done during the day. 

Eligibility:  

Many people are eligible for the procedure except for those with surgical metalwork, pacemaker or metallic devices. 

Procedure for Taking an MRI - Brain and Angiogram 

1. Arrival and preparatory steps: Go to the imaging centre, undress any metal objects, and put on a hospital dress. 
2. MRI explanation – A technologist will explain the MRI test and assist you in laying down on the MRI table.  
3. Head positioning – A head coil will be placed on your head so the machine can analyse the brain.  
4. Scanning - The MRI machine will begin the scan of your brain, and you will be required to stay still.  
5. Contrast agent injection (if needed) - A contrast agent may be put through an IV to improve the images captured.  
6. Completing the scan - The exam takes roughly 30-60 minutes. 

Cautions Before Taking the test 

• Consult with your doctor if any metallic parts or implants are present - This could be a pacemaker, an artificial joint, or any other metallic device within your body.  
• Suffering from agoraphobia or fear of confined spaces – Contact your physician regarding these concerns.