| Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) of the brain uses a | | | | patients as compared to the CT scan that identified |
| magnetic field, radio waves and a computer to create | | | | lesions in about 25% of the patients. An MRI technique |
| a detailed image of the complex structure of brain | | | | called diffusion/perfusion is used for scanning the brain |
| tissues. For a Brain MRI, the head is scanned with the | | | | and helps to detect a brain stroke within minutes of |
| help of an MRI machine. A Brain MRI gives a clear and | | | | onset, allowing for earlier treatment. |
| detailed cross sectional image of the brain area giving | | | | Unlike x-rays, which are harmful to the brain, MRIs are |
| a three-dimensional depiction of the brain. These cross | | | | a safer option for brain scanning because of no |
| sectional images can be projected and stored in a | | | | significant side effects. Gradient magnets are used to |
| computer or printed on a film. Since Brain MRIs | | | | alter the magnetic field in the area that has to be |
| produce better soft tissue images than X-ray reports | | | | scanned while the magnetic force is being applied. |
| and can distinguish between the grey matter and the | | | | Brain MRI helps the technician to concentrate on the |
| white matter of the brain, they help in locating defects | | | | exact area of the patient's brain they want to scan. |
| in the brain tissues like, tumors, pituitary masses, | | | | A new study has evolved where Brain MRIs are now |
| radiation damage to the brain, brain swelling, | | | | being widely used for polygraph tests as well as to |
| abnormalities of blood flow, optic glioma and brain | | | | identify if a person is lying. It does so by tracking the |
| aneurysm more accurately and precisely. MRI has | | | | flow of blood into certain areas of the brain, indicating |
| been able to identify lesions in brain in about 95% of | | | | increased activity of lying. |