Neurological & Head MRI Scans

Neurological and head MRI scans offer a safe and effective way for your provider to gain valuable insights into your brain and nervous system function. These scans use powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to create highly detailed cross-sectional images of your brain. 

It is a valuable tool in diagnosing a wide range of neurological conditions, including:

  • Tumors and cysts
  • Stroke and transient ischemic attacks (TIAs)
  • Multiple sclerosis (MS)
  • Epilepsy
  • Alzheimer's disease and other forms of dementia
  • Infections of the brain or spinal cord
  • Head injuries
  • Abnormalities of the pituitary gland or orbits

If you are experiencing any concerning neurological symptoms, discuss the possibility of an MRI scan with your healthcare provider.

MRIs & Brain Function

Your brain governs everything from your thoughts and movements to your senses and emotions. When neurological concerns arise, a neurological and head MRI scan can be a powerful tool for diagnosis and evaluation.

This non-invasive scan uses magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed cross-sectional images of your brain, brainstem, spinal cord, and blood vessels, offering insight into the inner workings of your nervous system. MRI scans go beyond simply capturing a picture. They provide valuable insights into brain function, aiding in the diagnosis of various neurological conditions.

  • Detailed Anatomy: MRI scans provide unmatched detail of the brain's intricate structures. From the cerebrum responsible for higher-order thinking to the cerebellum coordinating movement, these scans can identify abnormalities that may be causing neurological problems.
  • Tumor Detection and Characterization: MRI scans excel at detecting tumors within the brain. They can also reveal valuable details about the tumor's size, location, and characteristics. This information empowers your healthcare provider to develop a personalized treatment plan and provide accurate prognoses.
  • Stroke Diagnosis and Evaluation: Time is critical when it comes to stroke treatment. MRI scans can effectively differentiate between different types of strokes (ischemic caused by blood clots or hemorrhagic caused by bleeding) and pinpoint the exact location of the stroke. This rapid and precise diagnosis allows for the most effective treatment options and helps assess potential long-term effects.
  • Dementia Evaluation: While there's no single test for dementia, MRI scans can reveal changes in brain structure associated with various dementia-causing conditions like Alzheimer's disease. This information can aid in early diagnosis and guide treatment decisions to improve quality of life.

Visualize Blood Flow with MRA and MRV

MRI technology can be further specialized to visualize blood flow within the brain.  This is particularly helpful in diagnosing the following vascular conditions.

  • Magnetic Resonance Angiography (MRA): MRA uses MRI technology to create images of the blood flow within arteries. This is crucial for diagnosing conditions such as:
    • Stroke: MRA can identify narrowed or blocked arteries that may have contributed to a stroke or are at risk of causing one in the future.
    • Aneurysms: MRA can detect aneurysms (bulges) in the brain's arteries before they rupture, potentially preventing a life-threatening event.
  • Magnetic Resonance Venography (MRV): MRV employs MRI technology to visualize blood flow within veins. This can be helpful in diagnosing:
    • Venous Thrombosis: MRV can detect blood clots within the brain's veins, a condition known as cerebral venous thrombosis. Prompt diagnosis is essential to prevent complications like strokes.

Reveal Hidden Pituitary & Orbit Issues

Brain MRI scans are not limited to the brain itself. They can also provide invaluable insights into structures surrounding the brain, including the pituitary gland and orbits. This comprehensive examination sheds light on potential issues that might otherwise remain hidden.

Pituitary Gland

The pituitary gland, located at the base of the brain, plays a vital role in hormone production. It secretes hormones that regulate vital functions like growth, metabolism, and reproduction. 

MRI scans can detect abnormalities such as tumors or cysts within the pituitary gland, which can disrupt hormone production and cause various symptoms. MRI scans can reveal the presence, size, and location of a tumor or cyst, empowering your provider to develop an effective treatment plan.

Orbits

The orbits are the bony sockets that house your eyes. They contain a complex network of muscles, nerves, and blood vessels that work together for optimal eye function and movement. MRI scans can visualize the muscles, nerves, and blood vessels within the orbits. 

MRI scans offer a comprehensive view of these structures, aiding in the diagnosis of various conditions affecting the orbits.

  • Tumors & Masses: MRI scans can detect tumors or other masses within the orbits that may be causing vision problems, pain, or bulging eyes. MRI scans can effectively detect these abnormalities, allowing for early intervention and treatment.
  • Orbit Inflammation: Inflammation of the tissues within the orbit, known as orbital cellulitis, can be a sight-threatening condition. MRI scans can reveal the extent and location of the inflammation, enabling your healthcare provider to initiate prompt treatment.

Schedule Your MRI Scan Today

Neurological and head MRI scans at Tellica Imaging help diagnose and evaluate a wide range of neurological conditions. If you are experiencing any concerning neurological symptoms, discuss the possibility of an MRI scan with your healthcare provider.

Our team of experienced healthcare professionals will work with you to determine the most appropriate MRI scan for your specific needs. Don't wait to get the answers you need. 

Visit us at any of our convenient locations and our friendly staff is here to answer your questions and guide you through the scheduling process. To schedule an imaging test at any of our locations, please call us today. 

linkedin facebook pinterest youtube rss twitter instagram facebook-blank rss-blank linkedin-blank pinterest youtube twitter instagram