of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences
Bethesda, Maryland
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The
Department of Radiology and Radiological Sciences
of the Uniformed Services University of the Health Sciences Bethesda, Maryland |
| Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) | |
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| Fetal MRI: Normal Brain - Lung has Cystic Adenomatoid Malformation | |
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| Sagittal MR | Coronal MR |
| NOTE: These images have been inverted to show fetus upright. | |
Magnetic Resonance Imaging does not use X-Rays (nor any other type of "ionizing" radiation). Instead, it is a technique that combines a large magnetic field and some radio frequency antennas ("coils"). First, the magnetic field causes the protons in the atoms of water within the patient to all "line-up". Then, a high-frequency electro-magnetic pulse knocks many of the protons out of alignment. Next, a very sensitive radio antenna "listens" for the "resonance" signal that each proton gives off, as it goes back into alignment. These minute resonance signals occur in a pattern that a computer uses to create 3D information. The pictures look like "sections" or "cuts" - just like in CT. Except in the MR, the resulting image primarily reflects the water protons in the patient, as well as their chemical association with proteins, etc.
| DNET - Dysembryoplastic Neuroepithelial Tumor | ||
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| Contrast-enhanced CT | T1W MRI w/Gadolinium | Proton DensityMRI |
