Brain MRI - About the Exam
Mountain Medical performs brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to help diagnose conditions such as:
- brain tumors
- stroke
- 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)
Radiologists also use the brain MRI examination to detect abnormalities in patients with dementia, a disorder that can cause confusion or memory loss.
What you can expect during a brain MRI:
- You will be asked to lie on the 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 a brain MRI.
Learn the benefits and risks of brain MRI.
Watch the MRI - What to Expect Video.
