About the Scan – Brain MR Scan

SMIL performs magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain to help diagnose conditions such as:

• brain tumors
• stroke
• infections
• developmental anomalies
• hydrocephalus — dilatation of fluid spaces within the brain (ventricles)
• causes of epilepsy (seizure)
• hemorrhage in selected trauma patients
• certain chronic conditions, such as multiple sclerosis
• disorders of the eye and inner ear
• disorders of pituitary gland
• vascular problems, such as an aneurysm (a bubble-like expansion of the vessel), arterial occlusion (blockage) or venous thrombosis (a blood clot within a vein)

Physicians also use the MR examination to detect brain abnormalities in patients with dementia, a disorder that can cause confusion or memory loss.

In a brain MRI examination, you will be positioned on the moveable examination table that will move through the center of the MRI magnet.

When the examination is completed, you may be asked to wait until the technologist or radiologist checks the images in case additional images are needed.

MRI exams generally include multiple runs (sequences), some of which may last several minutes. The entire examination is usually completed within 45 minutes.

Learn how to prepare for the scan in the brain MR Scan preparations section.

Find out if this procedure is right for you in the benefits and risks of brain MR scan section.

For a downloadable/printable PDF about this exam with preparation instructions click here.