NeuroNews

All MRI's are Not Equal

  

  

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There are many elements that contribute to the quality of an MRI scan.  The first thing people generally think of is the size (strength) of the magnet but just as, if not more critical for an MRI to be useful in making a correct diagnosis are these factors; given from a neurological perspective.

• Choosing the correct type of imaging.  Different health issues may require one of, or a combination of MRI, MRI with contrast, MRA, as well as the decisions to use gradient echo sequencing or other variants.
• Determining proper protocols, slices and sequences that will zero in on the specific area to be imaged.
• Imaging the correct body part.  This may sound absurd but in a neurology practice, patients with radiating pain, due to a problem in the spine, routinely show up with a previous MRI of their shoulder, arm or hand.  A complete waste of time and money / insurance.
• Who reads the MRI? Most facilities have general radiologists that read every type and kind of MRI, somewhat a “jack of all trades”.  At MidAmerica Neuroscience, a neuroradiologist or a neurologist with fellowship training in neuro-imaging read all MRIs.

The reasons above are why Imaging Decisions Should Come After, and as a Result of the Clinical Examination.  But with all of these complex decisions, sometimes the outcome is dependent on the kindness and caring of the MRI technologist, as the following letter from a patient (used with permission) describes.

Dear Dr. Moreng
I would like to commend all of your staff that I met.  They were all really good people and that definitely includes yourself and Judy.  However one lady in particular stands out.  Her name is Tammy and I met her on Sept 12th at your Cambridge Circle location.  She is a very caring and professional lady who goes out of her way to make things easy on the patient.  I did not realize how long approximately two hours was in an MRI tube.  I could have had a problem handling it if not for her help.
Thanks again,
John P. Dalbier

Tammy Tubbs is an MRI technologist at MidAmerica Neuroscience Institute with over 10 years of experience.  Her professionalism and commitment to her patients are vital in achieving quality MRI scans that will assist the physicians in making the diagnosis.  Keep up the good work Tammy!