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MRI Brain

Also known as Brain MRI, Head MRI, Cranial MRI

This test is for

Male, Female

Test Preparation

At the time of the MRI, you might be asked to remove any metallic coins, jewelry, metal wristwatches, metallic keys, dentures, or hearing aids, as the MRI uses strong magnetic fields.
Tell your radiologist if you have metallic implants like pacemakers, cochlear implants, aneurysm clips, neuro-stimulators, surgical staples/clips, or drug implants.
Pregnant women should inform their doctor about their pregnancy before going for an MRI.

Understanding MRI Brain

What is MRI Brain?

The Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) Brain test is a highly advanced, non-invasive, painless imaging technique that uses powerful magnets and radio waves to create images of the brain and surrounding tissues. MRI brain screening helps diagnose stroke, tumors, injury, and neurological disorders.

The MRI Brain provides insights into brain anatomy and function. There are two types of MRI brain scans: MRI brain plain (without a special dye called contrast), used for detecting structural brain abnormalities, and MRI brain (with contrast) to highlight tumors, infections, or inflammation in the brain.

The MRI brain helps detect several brain conditions, including aneurysms (bulging in the blood vessels of the brain), multiple sclerosis, spinal cord injuries, hydrocephalus (a buildup of spinal fluid in the brain cavities), stroke, infections, tumors, cysts, swelling, hemorrhage, or bleeding, inflammation, problems with development or structure of the brain (such as a Chiari malformation), blood vessel issues or a head injury. Your doctor may also suggest a head MRI to investigate the cause of symptoms such as dizziness, weakness, seizures, changes in thinking or behavior, blurry vision, or chronic headaches. These symptoms may be due to a brain issue, which an MRI scan can help detect.

The MRI scan differs from a CT or an X-ray because it doesn’t use radiation to produce images.

Before undergoing an MRI Brain test, remove metal objects like metallic coins, jewelry, metal wrist watches, metallic keys, dentures, or hearing aids, as the MRI uses strong magnetic fields and can pull on any metallic objects. Wear loose-comfortable clothing without metal fasteners. Inform your doctor about your pregnancy, medical history, allergies, medications, pacemaker, metal implants, etc, before going for an MRI test. If you are either too claustrophobic or overweight to undergo a traditional closed MRI, discuss sedation or open MRI options (Open MRI machines have wider tunnels, which tend to be more tolerable) with your doctor.

Interpretation of test results requires expert guidance. Always consult the doctor for a proper understanding of your test results.

Disclaimer: You must visit your nearest Tata 1mg partnered lab facility for radiology tests.

What is MRI Brain used for?

The MRI Brain test is done:

To diagnose stroke, brain tumors, cysts, or bleeding.
To diagnose hydrocephalus (dilatation of fluid spaces within the brain).
To identify neurological disorders (e.g., Parkinson's disease, etc.).
To detect brain infections (e.g., meningitis, etc.).
To evaluate brain damage from injury or trauma.
To investigate the cause of sudden-onset or long-standing symptoms like headaches or migraines, dizziness or balance issues, memory loss, vision changes, hearing loss, weakness, numbness, or paralysis.
To track the progression of neurological conditions.
To monitor treatment response.
To identify aging-related changes (brain volume loss or signal changes in brain tissue).
As a part of pre-surgical assessment before a brain surgery.
To investigate developmental or congenital brain abnormalities.

What does MRI Brain measure?

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) Brain is an imaging procedure that combines a large magnet, radio frequencies, and a computer to produce detailed brain images.

The MRI brain scan measures various aspects of the brain anatomy and function, including brain tissue density and volume, cerebral blood flow and oxygenation, water content and diffusion, white and gray matter integrity, lesions, tumors, or other abnormalities. It also measures brain activity and metabolism, blood-brain barrier integrity, cerebrospinal fluid flow, and dynamics. Additionally, it helps diagnose brain tumors, cysts, abscesses, hemorrhages or infections, stroke, neurodegenerative diseases, etc.

Answers to Patient Concerns & Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about MRI Brain

Frequently Asked Questions about MRI Brain

Q. What is the functional MRI (fMRI) Brain?

The functional MRI (fMRI) of the brain is useful for people who might have to undergo brain surgery. The fMRI can pinpoint areas of the brain responsible for speech, language, and body movement. It does this by measuring metabolic changes in your brain when you perform specific tasks. During this test, you may need to carry out small tasks, such as answering basic questions or tapping your thumb with your fingertips.

Q. What is MRA?

Magnetic resonance angiography (MRA) is a type of MRI that better examines the blood vessels in the brain.

Q. What will happen during the test?

During the MRI Brain test, you will be asked to lie on a table that moves into a large tube-shaped machine. It’s important to stay still for the clear pictures. Anxious Individuals who have trouble staying still might get some sedation. If required, a contrast dye will be injected through an IV to help show certain parts of your brain better. The machine makes loud banging noises during the procedure. You may be offered earplugs to block the MRI machine’s noises, or you may listen to music during the test.

Q. What will happen after the test?

After the test, you can leave the testing facility. If you were sedated for the MRI scan, the technician may move you to a recovery area until you wake up. A radiologist will analyze your MRI images and provide your doctor with the results. You can resume your normal activities immediately unless otherwise advised by your doctor.

Q. Is the MRI Brain test safe?

Yes, the MRI Brain test is safe and uses radio waves instead of radiation.

Q. How long does the Brain MRI test take?

The MRI Brain test may last as long as it takes for the radiologist to get clear images of the intended areas.

Q. Will I feel any pain during the MRI Brain test?

The MRI exam causes no pain. However, it’s important to stay still to obtain the clearest images.

Q. Do I need a Doctor's prescription for the MRI Brain test?

Yes, a doctor's prescription is typically required.

Q. Can I bring a family member or friend with me during the MRI Brain test?

Policies may vary across diagnostics centers, however, usually a family member can stay in the waiting area during the procedure.

Q. What are the risks associated with MRI brain?

There are no risks associated with an MRI itself. There is a very slight chance that you will have an allergic reaction to a contrast solution. Tell the medical staff if you have decreased kidney function. It may not be safe to use a contrast solution if this is the case.

Q. What if I’m claustrophobic?

If you have claustrophobia, inform your doctor or technician before the test. They may suggest solutions like medication or sedation to help you relax, or they might use an open MRI machine, which provides a less confined space.

Q. What is the difference between open and closed MRI?

Open MRI machines have a wider opening and are less confining, making them better for claustrophobic individuals. Closed MRI machines have a narrow design and usually provide higher-resolution images, which can be better for detailed examinations. The choice depends on medical needs and individual comfort.

Q. Can I have the MRI scan if I’m pregnant?

The MRI scan is generally considered safe during pregnancy as it uses radio waves and magnetic fields to create images and does not use radiation. However, you should inform your doctor or technician before the MRI test.

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