MRI BRAIN + ORBITS

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the brain and orbits is a painless and non-surgical diagnostic scan that employs strong magnetic fields and radio waves to generate clear images of the brain and eye sockets. This scan is often utilized to diagnose and track a range of conditions related to the brain and eyes. 

What is MRI Brain + Orbits? 

MRI Brain + Orbits employs a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to align the hydrogen atoms in the body, which are then picked up by the MRI machine to create detailed pictures of the brain and orbits. The test does not use radiation and is safe for most individuals. 

Types of MRI Brain + Orbits

There are several types of MRI Brain + Orbits tests, including:

• T1-weighted MRI: to visualize structural brain details 
• T2-weighted MRI: to identify lesions or tumours 
• FLAIR MRI: to identify lesions or inflammation within the brain 
• Contrast-enhanced MRI: employs a contrast dye to help mark specific structures or lesions 

Medical professionals during the test seek to identify: 

• Structural abnormalities, including tumours or cysts 
• Brain inflammation or lesions 
• Brain tissue density abnormalities 
• Vessel and blood flow abnormalities 
• Abnormalities in the optic nerves or eyes 

Patient factors may necessitate adjustments, including: 

• Age: children may need sedation or special protocols 
• Underlying conditions: patients with metal implants or specific medical conditions may need special precautions 

This examination is most often ordered for: 

• Diagnosing and monitoring brain tumours, cysts, or aneurysms 
• Assessing stroke symptoms, multiple sclerosis, or other neurodegenerative disorders 
• Monitoring eye disease, including glaucoma or cataracts 
• Detecting and monitoring infections, including meningitis or encephalitis 

When and Who Needs to Take an MRI Brain + Orbits? 

This test is generally advised for individuals who have the following symptoms: 

• Migraines or severe headaches 
• Memory loss, confusion, or disorientation 
• Paralysis or weakness, numbness in the face or extremities 
• Vision changes or loss of vision 
• Ringing in the ears or hearing loss 
• Convulsions or seizures 

Individual patient populations that usually need this test are: 

• Individuals with a history of neurodegenerative disease in their families 
• Individuals with a history of head injury or trauma 
• Patients with suspected brain tumours or cysts 
• Individuals with specific autoimmune diseases, including multiple sclerosis 

Benefits of Taking the Test

Advantages of the MRI Brain + Orbits test are: 

• High-resolution images of the brain and orbits 
• Non-invasive and radiation-free 
• Can detect a broad variety of conditions that impact the brain and eyes 
• Can be used to follow disease progression or response to therapy 

Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Brain + Orbits

Routine illnesses diagnosed using this test are: 

• Brain tumours or cysts 
• Stroke or cerebral vasculitis 
• Multiple sclerosis or other demyelinating conditions 
• Glaucoma or cataracts 
• Meningitis or encephalitis 
• Optic neuritis or other ocular diseases 

Preparations for the test are: 

• Getting there early to fill out paperwork and have questions answered 
• Taking off all metal items, such as jewellery, glasses, and hairpins 
• Dressing in loose, comfortable clothing 
• Notifying the technician of any medical conditions or implants 

Pre-requisites 

Pre-test requirements are: 

• Fasting for 4-6 hours prior to the test 
• Avoiding caffeinated foods or drinks 
• Notifying the technician of any medications or allergies 

Best Time to Take the MRI Brain + Orbits 

This test is available at any time, although it's a good idea to schedule it when you're likely to be in a relaxed state and can remain still. 

Eligibility 

Eligibility for the MRI Brain + Orbits test is: 

• Most adults and paediatric patients 
• Patients with some medical implants, like pacemakers or cochlear implants, might need special precautions or other tests 

Procedure for Taking an MRI Brain + Orbits 

The process of the test usually consists of: 

1. Lying on the MRI table 
2. Scout images to identify the best location to scan 
3. Scans in a series, each taking several minutes 
4. Contrast dye injection, if required 
5. Further scans following contrast dye injection 

The overall test duration is around 30-60 minutes. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

Precautions to be taken prior to the test are: 

• Advising the technician of any medical conditions or metal implants 
• Avoiding stimulants and caffeine 
• Removing all metal items 
• Attentive listening to breathing instructions