Dear MRI Insider,
MRI is one of the most effective diagnostic imaging tools available, offering noninvasive, nonionizing, quantitative, and multiparametric imaging. But only a third of the world's population has access to it, according to a team of researchers from the University of Hong Kong.
In this edition's Insider Exclusive, we're highlighting findings from a study the group conducted that used a compact, mobile, low-cost, 0.055-tesla MRI scanner developed for neuroimaging. Take a look at our article to find out how the system performed.
Although the RSNA 2021 meeting has come to a close, we're continuing to cover research presented during the conference. Check out the following stories:
- Italian researchers found that MRI-guided focused ultrasound bests external-beam radiation therapy for pain relief in metastatic bone disease patients.
- A team from the University of Colorado says that Black and elderly patients who present to the emergency department with ministroke are less likely to receive complete imaging workups -- including MRI.
- Investigators from imaging services provider RadNet found that an artificial intelligence algorithm both improves spine MRI exam quality and boosts exam speed by 72%.
- A Canadian group says that MRI-targeted prostate biopsy is a viable alternative to the more invasive 12-core systematic biopsy.
- Dr. Emanuel Kanal of the University of Pittsburgh offered an overview on the state of MRI safety protocols in a video at the meeting.
Finally, a study published this month in Alzheimer's Research & Therapy suggests that structural MRI could help clinicians identify chronic traumatic encephalopathy in living individuals -- a feat that hasn't been possible until now.
We invite you to stay up to date on MRI's many contributions to the healthcare enterprise by visiting our MRI Community regularly. Happy holidays, and best wishes for 2022!
