MRI ORBIT

MRI Orbit Overview

MRI or Imaging Resonance Magnifique is an orthopaedic MRI scan that is performed in a specialist MRI scan room with dedicated high-power scanners to obtain the scan images of the eyes, optic paths, extraocular muscles, and other structures near them. MRI utilizes strong magnetic fields which generate radio waves to create detailed photographs of the body which are not injurious. 

What is MRI Orbit? 

MRI orbit assists in receiving photographs of the muscles found inside the eyes, of the soft structures around the eyes; it is critical in comparison and understanding a few conditions in ophthalmic science and neurology. Soft tissue injuries are evaluated more accurately and precisely in comparison to CT tests, MRI scans are superior in for examining tissues and soft brain structures as well as the optic nerves and other related muscles. 

Types of MRI Orbit 

• Standard MRI: Soft tissue evaluation features high-resolution imaging.  
• Advantageous MRI: Conditional inflammatory and abnormal growth visualization via Gadolinium contrast.  
• Functional MRI (fMRI): Vascular flow along with brain activity for vision evaluation 

List of Parameters Considered During MRI Orbit

• Signs of infection or inflammatory changes. 
• Growth or damage to nerve pathways.  
• Structure of muscles controlling eyeball movement.  
• Vertebrae and venous abnormalities.  
• Nerve tendon development. 

Reasons for Taking an MRI Orbit

• Diagnosis of optic neuritis  
• Evaluating orbital tumours or cysts  
• Assessment of traumatic eye injuries  
• Detection of inflammation due to autoimmune disorders  
• Evaluation of vision loss of unknown cause 

When and Who Needs an MRI Orbit? 

Indications 

• Eye injuries or fractures  
• Vision loss for undisclosed reasons.  
• Detection of abnormal growth in the ocular region. 
• Multiple sclerosis or optic neuritis. 
• Graves’ Ophthalmopathy.  
• Tumours, cysts. Orbital inflammatory or infectious diseases. 

Patient Demographics:  

• Eye ailment sufferers.  
• Suffering from optic nerve ailment.  
• Individuals experiencing vision impairment.  
• Lesions & Orbital tumour sufferings. 

Benefits of Taking the Test

• Non-invasive without radiation exposure  
• Excellent in providing soft tissue contrast detail  
• Crucial for diagnosing ocular and orbital pathologies  
• Important in formulating treatment and surgical strategies 

Illnesses Diagnosed with MRI Orbit

• Optic neuritis  
• Orbital tumours or cysts  
• Graves' disease ophthalmopathy  
• Orbital cellulitis and abscesses  
• Changes in optic nerves due to multiple sclerosis

Preparing for MRI Orbit

• Remove metals and any electronic accessories  
• Put on loose fitting and comfortable clothes  
• Tell the technician about any implants and inform them if pregnant  
• No food or drink is permitted prior if contrast agent is planned 

Pre-requisites 

• No history of allergy to the contrast material used (if MRI will use contrast)  
• Ordered medication for anxiety or claustrophobia if needed 

Best Time to Take the MRI Orbit 

• Following physician's order  
• Booked to prevent waiting times and ensure time set aside for the patient 

Eligibility 

• Usually appropriate for all patients except those with implants that are not compatible with MRI 

Procedure for Taking an MRI Orbit 

• The patient is positioned supine on the MRI table.  
• A coil is placed around the head with a focus on the orbital area.  
• An MRI scanner captures images utilizing magnetic fields and radio waves.  
• It takes roughly 30 to 45 minutes to complete the procedure.  
• If necessary, contrast may be administered. 

Caution Before Taking the Test 

• Notify the radiologist about any metal implants or if pregnant.  
• Remain motionless during the scan for optimal image quality.