MRI BRAIN + PNS

MRI Brain + PNS Overview

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Brain and Peripheral Nervous System (PNS) is a non-invasive imaging procedure that employs strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the brain and nervous system. MRI Brain + PNS is widely utilized to diagnose and monitor a variety of conditions that affect the brain and nervous system, such as injuries, infections, and degenerative diseases. 

What is MRI Brain + PNS? 

MRI Brain + PNS combines magnetic fields and radio waves to produce images of the brain and nervous system. The procedure is based on aligning the hydrogen atoms within the body, which are subsequently disrupted by radio waves. As the atoms relax back to their aligned positions, they release signals, which are used to form detailed images of the brain and nervous system. 

Types of MRI Brain + PNS  

There are different types of MRI Brain + PNS tests, such as: 

• Standard MRI: This is the most usual type of MRI test, using a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to generate detailed images. 
• Functional MRI (fMRI): It is a test that measures change in brain function by identifying alterations in blood flow. 
• Diffusion-weighted MRI: This test detects water molecule diffusion within the brain and can diagnose an illness like a stroke. 

List of Parameters Considered During MRI Brain + PNS

Medical staff will consider the following parameters while undertaking the test: 

• Brain structure and anatomy 
• Lesion or tumour present 
• Blood flow and perfusion 
• Nerve injury or degeneration 
• Evidence of infection or inflammation 

Reasons for Taking an MRI Brain + PNS

An MRI Brain + PNS can be taken for the following symptoms or conditions: 

• Headaches or migraine 
• Seizures or epilepsy 
• Stroke or cerebrovascular disease 
• Cysts or tumours in the brain 
• Neurodegenerative disorders (e.g., Parkinson's, Alzheimer's) 
• Infection (e.g., meningitis, encephalitis) 
• Peripheral neuropathy or nerve damage 

When and Who to Take an MRI Brain + PNS? 

An MRI Brain + PNS can be ordered for patients presenting with the following symptoms: 

• Migraines or severe headaches 
• Disorientation or confusion 
• Numbness or weakness in the extremities or face 
• Trouble speaking or swallowing 
• Changes in vision or double vision 
• Tinnitus or hearing loss 
• Dizziness or loss of balance 

The test can be ordered for patients with a history of: 

• Head injury or trauma 
• Cerebral vasculature or stroke disorders 
• Cysts or brain tumours 
• Neurodegenerative conditions (e.g., Parkinson's, Alzheimer's) 
• Infections (e.g., encephalitis, meningitis) 
• Nerve damage or peripheral neuropathy 

Benefits of Taking the test

The advantages of MRI Brain + PNS are: 

• High-resolution images of the brain and nervous system 
• Non-invasive and painless procedure 
• May diagnose a broad spectrum of illnesses 
• May track treatment efficacy and disease development 

Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Brain + PNS

Some of the common diseases diagnosed using MRI Brain + PNS are: 

• Brain cysts or tumours 
• Stroke or cerebral vasculature disease 
• Neurodegenerative illness (e.g., Alzheimer's, Parkinson's) 
• Infections (e.g., meningitis, encephalitis) 
• Nerve damage or peripheral neuropathy 

Preparing for MRI Brain + PNS

Patients should: 

• Remove all metal items (e.g., glasses, jewellery) 
• Dress in loose, comfortable clothing 
• Not eat or drink for a minimum of 4 hours prior to the test 
• Tell the technician about any medical conditions or allergies 

Pre-requisites 

There are no pre-requisites for MRI Brain + PNS, but patients should: 

• Be at least 18 years old 
• Be able to keep still and take instructions throughout the test 
• Have no metal implants or devices that will be affected by the magnetic field 

Best Time to Take the Test 

The test may be done at any time, but it is generally booked for morning or early afternoon. 

Eligibility 

Patients who are normally recommended to undergo an MRI Brain + PNS include those with: 

• Symptoms of nervous system or brain disorders 
• History of injury or head trauma 
• Family history of neurodegenerative disorders 

Procedure for Taking an MRI Brain + PNS 

The test will normally take 30-60 minutes to complete and includes the following: 

1. Preparation: The patient is placed on the MRI table and instructions are provided. 
2. Imaging: The MRI device takes detailed images of the nervous system and brain. 
3. Contrast agent: A contrast agent can be given to improve image quality. 
4. Additional imaging: Extra images can be taken to image particular areas of interest. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

Patients should tell the technician about: 

• Any metal implants or devices 
• Any medical conditions or allergies 
• Any prior reactions to contrast agents