by 4D Medical | Nov 19, 2024 | News
Thousands of businesses affected, more than 200 deaths and severe damage to many families, businesses and local institutions. The passage of the DANA has had an impact on a total of 75 municipalities in the Valencian Community, two in Castilla-La Mancha and one in Andalusia. Three weeks later, the economic cost is estimated at 1,789 million euros, between repairs and economic reactivation measures, in addition to a further 53 million euros in losses due to inactivity.
According to the data of the evaluation report carried out by the Valencia Chamber of Commerce, the total impact was 1,843 million euros.. But how has it affected the healthcare sector and medical centers?
Retail stores, the main affected by the DANA
The stores and small businesses have been the main affected after the floods. Approximately, a total of 5,228 companies have been directly hit by the DANA, and more than 3,500 businesses have serious damage. For this reason, the government has earmarked a set of measures to repair the damage in the affected premises. The cost of all structural damage will amount to €145 million, in addition to the €394 million earmarked for the cleaning and replacement of assets125 million for the construction of the new plant, such as machinery and furniture, and inventory replenishment.
The healthcare sector and the medical centers concerned
In the healthcare sector, there are many medical, veterinary and dental clinics; physiotherapy centers and health centers which have suffered numerous damages. Floods have affected a multitude of diagnostic imaging and laboratory equipment. and many of them could not be saved after the passage of the DANA.
4D Médica's services to help affected facilities
In view of this situation, from 4D MedicalWe are doing our bit to help all the affected centers. Throughout the last few weeks, we have been carrying out different activities to technical assistance services free of charge. On the one hand, the removal of diagnostic equipment that have had serious mishaps and the reporting on the extent of the damages The companies can process the request for insurance indemnities and also the application for the different state aids.
Main solutions and measures for companies
The retail fabric has been the most affected, especially in the Valencian Community. An impact that could lead to the definitive closure of many businesses, as it is estimated that there is a potential risk that between 25% and 40% of commercial businesses will not reopen. For this reason, the government has promoted a series of economic reactivation measures to support businesses.
Industrial and service establishments have access to a subsidy of up to 7% of the value of the compensable damages36,896 euros. At the same time, it has been approved a 500 million to remove the accumulated sludge debris and repair water networks in the affected municipalities. On the other hand, the victims are exempted from paying the Real Estate Tax (IBI) and have a reduction in the Business Activity Tax (IAE) in 2024.
United to restore clinics and health centers to normalcy
There is still much to be done, but together, we will help restore health and well-being. Many volunteers have volunteered to clean up and bring supplies and materials to the hardest hit areas. At 4D Médica, we are supporting all the companies and centers that need it. The aim is to enable the affected businesses in the healthcare sector to resume their activities.
Together, we will get things back to normal. If your center is one of those affected, you can contact us by the following means:
We will be happy to help you!
by 4D Medical | Nov 14, 2024 | Medical equipment
The computed tomographyalso known as computed axial tomography, also known as computed tomography, or TAChas become one of the most widely used diagnostic imaging techniques. It is a procedure that uses special X-ray equipment and advanced computers to obtain three-dimensional images with different slices of the body.
Since its clinical introduction in 1971, it has undergone successive advances that have allowed its application in different fields of medicine. At present, computed tomography is used to diagnose disorders such as cancer, cardiovascular conditions, infectious processes, trauma and diseases of the locomotor apparatus. In the following article, we analyze how it works, what it is used for and the origin and evolution of this diagnostic test.
How does a CAT scan work?
In order to perform this diagnostic imaging, the following is used computed axial tomography system which incorporates a X-ray scanners generating three-dimensional images with different cuts of the interior of the organism.
These slices are called tomographic images and are used for the following purposes study various internal regions of the bodyThe CT scanner can be used to view everything from organs, bones and soft tissues to blood vessels. In contrast to radiography, which only provides a two-dimensional representation, the CT scan makes it possible to observe the three-dimensional images. This makes it possible to analyze tissues with greater detail and clarity. Another aspect to note is that the CT scanner utilizes a X-ray source and has a ionizing radiation higher than that of an X-ray.
During the procedure, the CT scanner rotates around the circular opening of a threaded structure called Gantry. The patient lies on a bed and is inserted inside the scanner so that the specialist can analyze the tissues. The X-ray detectors are located in front of the X-ray source and generate a series of images through different cuts. Subsequently, are transmitted to a computer where the interior of the organism can be visualized and analyzed.
CT contrast medium
As with X-rays, dense structures within the body, such as bones, are easy to image. However, soft tissues are more difficult to image. For this reason, contrast media have been developed that increase the visibility of tissues during X-ray or CT scans. Contain a set of substances that are safe for patients and make it possible to stop X-rays, so that organs will be seen in more detail in the test.
For example, to examine the circulatory system, an iodine-based intravenous contrast medium is injected into the bloodstream to illuminate the blood vessels.
What is CT used for?
CT is used as a clinical diagnostic test, in follow-up studies to analyze the patient's health status, in radiotherapy treatment planning, and even for screening asymptomatic individuals with specific risk factors. A computed tomography scan creates detailed images of the bodywhich include the brain, thorax, spine and abdomen.. Specifically, we can highlight the following uses:
- To help diagnose the presence of a cancer or tumor.. It is one of the most widely used techniques to screen for the presence of colorectal cancer and lung cancer.
- Obtain information about the stage of a cancer.
- Determine if a cancer reacts to treatment.
- To detect the return or recurrence of a tumor.
- Diagnose an infection.
- Support technique to guide a biopsy procedure.
- To guide some local treatmentssuch as cryotherapy, radiofrequency ablation and radioactive seed implantation.
- Radiotherapy planning external beam or surgery.
- Study the blood vessels.
When did computed tomography come into being?
Computed tomography was introduced in 1971 as an X-ray modality. which allowed axial images of the brain to be obtained, so it was a clinical method used specifically in the neuroradiology area. Its evolution has made CT a versatile imaging technique with which three-dimensional images of any anatomical area can be obtained. Currently, it is a diagnostic imaging equipment with a wide range of diagnostic capabilities. wide range of medical applications in oncology, vascular radiology, cardiology, traumatology or interventional radiology.
Evolution: From its beginnings to the present day
At 1971The following were developed first CT scanners for clinical use. During these early years, the EMI-scanner was used, with which brain data could be obtained and the calculation time per image was about 7 minutes in total. Soon after, scanners applicable to any part of the body were developed. At 1973In the early 1990s, the axial scannerswhose equipment had only one single row of X-ray detectors. Subsequently, it was when the helical or spiral scannerswhich incorporated multiple detector rowsits clinical use had a significant impact on the widely used and are the ones currently in use.
Current CT equipment: Main improvements and types
The evolution of the equipment has made it possible to obtain significant improvements. In today's systems, the image quality and offer both a better quality of life and a better spatial resolution as a low contrast resolution. In addition, nowadays, the following are also available CT scanners designed for specific clinical applications. Among them, we can highlight:
- Specific CT equipment for radiotherapy treatment planning: These scanners offer a larger aperture diameter than usual, thus allowing a study with a wider field of view. Thus, the images generated have greater detail and clarity.
- Hybrid equipment integrating CT scanners with other imaging techniquesHybrid solutions are now available. Among them, we can highlight the CT scanner incorporating a positron emission tomograph (PET) or a single photon emission tomograph (SPECT).
- Specialized scanners for new indications in diagnostic imagingDual-source" CT scanners, which are equipped with two X-ray tubes, have been developed, as well as "volumetric" CT scanners, which incorporate up to 320 detector rows, making it possible to obtain complete data on the organs analyzed in a single use.
Main risks
CT scans can diagnose serious diseases and conditions such as cancer, hemorrhage or blood clots. An early diagnosis is essential in order to find a solution as soon as possible and save lives. However, it is true that it is a test that presents some risks that are important to discuss:
X-Ray
One of the main risks of CT scanning is that it uses X-rays, which produce ionizing radiation. This type of radiation can have certain effects on the organism and it is a risk that increases with the number of exposures to which a person is subjected. However, the risk of developing cancer by the radiation emitted by the X-rays is generally low.
Use in pregnant women and children
In the case of pregnant women, there are no risks for the baby if the area of the body being imaged is not the abdomen or pelvis. But, medical professionals often perform tests that do not use radiation, such as the magnetic resonance imaging or ultrasound. As for the childrenare more sensitive to ionizing radiationas they have a longer life expectancy and the risk of developing cancer may be higher compared to adults.
Reactions to contrast medium
On the other hand, another aspect to be highlighted is that some patients may have allergic reactions to contrast medium and, in very specific cases, temporary renal insufficiency. In this situation, intravenous contrast media should not be administered to patients with abnormal renal function.
As we have been able to analyze, computed tomography or CT is very useful for detailed and precise analysis of certain internal tissues and organs. By means of X-rays, certain conditions or serious diseases can be studied, which is why it is essential for clinical diagnosis and its application in different fields of medicine.
Kiko Ramos
CEO of 4D Médica. Expert in marketing and distribution of medical equipment.
by 4D Medical | Nov 12, 2024 | AI in medicine
The use of new technologies and artificial intelligence (AI) has meant a before and after for many sectors. One of them has been medicine, where the latest advances and applications have been influenced by the development of technology. Artificial intelligence is a specialty in the field of computer science that is used to produce programs through a series of algorithms that have the ability to think, learn and make decisions, as humans do.
How does AI work?
AI began to be developed in the 1990s with the aim of creating a computer system that would process data in a similar way to the human brain. One of the branches of artificial intelligence that is most useful in the healthcare sector is the automatic learning. This system has the ability for machines to use the algorithms and learn from the dataThis improves decision making with the processed information.
By automating functions and tasks, healthcare professionals can process and analyze medical data faster and more accurately. This has a significant impact on the different areas of the health care sector and promotes improved healthcare management. Among the main uses offered by AI in the healthcare field, we find that it helps to develop and optimize processes in clinical diagnosis, disease detection and prevention, healthcare, research and the creation or updating of new drugs.
In turn, it has also been a determining factor in the progress of telemedicine and in the development of personalized medical treatments. In the following article, we address the main applications of AI in medicine and how they are helping to create a more complete, agile and effective healthcare system.
AI applications in medicine
In recent years, AI has been incorporated into medicine to promote higher quality patient care, speed up processes and achieve increased diagnostic accuracy. What are the different areas in which artificial intelligence is currently being used and what improvements have they brought about?
Disease prevention and early diagnosis
AI is a key tool in disease prevention. Through the use of Big Datawhich consists of a combination of digital health data, genomic data and patient behavioral data, can be used as a basis for the development of a new identify risk factors and patterns that lead to the development of certain diseases.
- Spread of diseasesOn the one hand, machine learning algorithms can predict the spread of diseases such as influenza or COVID-19, anticipating epidemic peaks and allowing preventive measures to be taken.
- Detecting signs of chronic diseasesAnother of its applications is that early signs of chronic diseases, such as diabetes or heart disease, can be identified. Chronic diseases are characterized by their slow onset and, in most cases, go unnoticed until they develop into more serious complications. Therefore, the use of AI is very useful for detecting possible signs of disease in medical studies, such as blood tests, ultrasound images or electrocardiograms. In this case, AI algorithms can detect patterns of cardiovascular disease through medical images such as the magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography scans.
- Predisposition to genetic diseasesThrough the use of genomic data, artificial intelligence can also analyze predisposition to genetic diseases. AI algorithms are responsible for studying patterns in DNA to identify genetic variants that could indicate a high risk in the development of certain diseases. In oncology, it is used to predict the risk of breast or colon cancer, allowing doctors to design personalized prevention plans.
Clinical diagnosis
In the image processing and interpretation for diagnosisAI offers algorithms that improve the quality and accuracy of clinical diagnostics. They allow to recognize complex patterns in image data automatically, to eliminate noise to increase their quality and to establish three-dimensional models from images of specific patients. In this field, we can highlight the research by IBM researchers on a new study on the use of a new AI model can predict the development of malignant breast cancer.
With rates comparable to those obtained by human radiologists, this algorithm can learn and make decisions about cancer development from imaging data and patient history. Specifically, it was able to predict the 87% of the analyzed cases and was also able to interpret the 77% of noncancerous cases. Therefore, this model could be a fundamental tool to help radiologists confirm or dismiss positive cases of breast cancer.
Personalized medical treatments
Another use of AI in medicine is to find personalized medical treatments for each patient. Based on a set of factors, such as medical history, lifestyle and genetics, the AI algorithms can analyze a large volume of genomic and biomarker data to identify patterns and risk factors.
This can be used to develop a specific medical treatment for the patient's needsThe use of AI in oncology, for example, helps to identify the best treatment for each type of cancer, taking into account the specific genetics of the tumor. For example, in oncology, AI helps to identify the best treatment for each type of cancer, considering the specific genetics of the tumor.
Health care
Patient care is one of the areas where AI can provide great support to both medical professionals and patients. In this case, the AI-based virtual assistants are an ideal solution for automating functions and tasks. These include the appointment management, the realization of basic health consultations, the symptom assessment and the administration of medications.
Promoting telemedicine
These systems have also enabled the evolution of telemedicine. In this sense, professionals can monitoring patients suffering from chronic diseases remotely and receive alerts of possible anomalies that may arise in their health condition. This offers wide-ranging benefits in reaching a larger number of patients, especially those who live in regions that do not have all the health services in their localities and must travel to receive medical care.
Resource management in medical centers and hospitals
Another area where AI can be implemented is in the management of material and human resources in clinics, hospitals and health centers. Examining large amounts of data from historical records can be essential for to foresee the resources required in a given situationThe company's management and optimization of the available resources can be very helpful for the management and optimization of the available resources. This can be of great help to avoid overcrowding of medical centers at times of high demand and be able to manage the inventory of medical supplies and the availability of beds and medications.
Drug research and development
Artificial intelligence has been fundamental in the development of medical research, both in the development of new drugs as in the optimization of clinical trials. The integration of artificial intelligence into drug design involves a multidisciplinary approach combining both chemistry and biology concepts as well as computer science. to accelerate the discovery of new treatments and medical solutions.
For this purpose, AI models created with machine learning and deep learning algorithms are used to analyze large amounts of data on chemical and biological compounds and the interaction between them.
Robotic surgery
Robotic surgery systems such as the Da Vinci use AI to perform complex surgical procedures with greater control and precision. These robots are controlled by the surgeons to make small incisions, which helps to reduce the margin of error, perform minimally invasive surgeries and improve patient recovery times..
Another key area in which artificial intelligence can be applied is in the creation of customized surgical plans. In this case, the following are used data from previous surgeries to optimize techniques and to predict possible complications. that may arise during operations.
Training
AI has a key role to play in the training of health professionals. It provides multiple tools that help medical specialists to acquire and perfect their skills in different areas, increasing their knowledge in a more efficient and personalized way.
On the one hand, the medical simulations through AI allow students to be able to implementing complex procedures and reducing the risk of errors. At the same time, the following stand out learning platforms that use AI to adjust educational content based on the level of knowledge of the learnerThe aim is to achieve greater efficiency in the learning process.
In summary, AI has a wealth of applications in medicine and there are new improvements and innovations every day that help to further advance the healthcare sector.
Bibliography
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Merly Dayana Jurado-Sánchez, Eddy Maritza Pedroza-Charris, Blanca Mery Rolón-Rodríguez. (2021) How has artificial intelligence helped in medicine. Convictions, 8 (16), 6-20. https://www.fesc.edu.co/Revistas/OJS/index.php/convicciones/article/view/841
Kiko Ramos
CEO of 4D Médica. Expert in marketing and distribution of medical equipment.
by 4D Medical | Nov 5, 2024 | News
The Principality of Asturias Health Service (Sespa) has received 54 state-of-the-art ultrasound scanners 1.7 million euros. Following the award of the Diagximag public contract in April 2024, the delivery of the equipment was signed on September 30. The ultrasound scanners, which were delivered during the months of July and August, represent a very important step forward in the modernization and digitalization of the healthcare sector in the Asturian region.
How are Diagximag's state-of-the-art ultrasound scanners different?
The company of Asturian origin, Diagximag4D Médica, a subsidiary of 4D Médica and part of the group Substrate AIhas about state-of-the-art ultrasound scanners which offers a complete imaging solution. These Samsung-branded medical devices combine advanced technology and precision imaging of the different organs, tissues and internal structures of the body. It is an essential tool for diagnosing medical conditions, monitoring the health and development of the fetus during pregnancy, and for guiding certain medical procedures, such as biopsies and tissue extraction. Below, we analyze the main features that define Diagximag ultrasound scanners:
- Equipment includes artificial intelligence and remote controlOne of the innovations of Diagximag ultrasound scanners is that they allow ultrasound scans to be performed using artificial intelligence. They differ in that they include the Sonosync function that allows radiologists to control the equipment completely remotely. In other words, from their own home, they can diagnose patients as if they were present at the medical center.
- High image resolutionThey have a very good image resolution and incorporate Doppler technology, so that tissues and blood flow can be visualized with total clarity. This allows to visualize detailed images and perform a complete diagnosis of the area of the body to be analyzed.
- Intuitive design for multiple uses in the clinical settingIn addition to their multiple functions, ultrasound scanners have an intuitive design that facilitates their use in different clinical environments. A fundamental aspect when it comes to increasing the efficiency of medical diagnostics.
What advantages and innovations do they offer in diagnostic imaging?
The ultrasounds are one of the most widely used medical techniques today, because it is a convenient, inexpensive, safe and non-invasive test. The medical devices used to perform this highly demanded test are ultrasound scanners. They have a rod-shaped toolcalled transducerwhich is responsible for detecting the waves produced inside the body. Through the use of a special gel which is applied to the skin of the area to be examined and the use of a computerThe images are displayed on the screen, which provide the information on fabrics.
The innovative technology based on the application of AI not only enhances the medical diagnostic experience, but also offers a major progress in telemedicine. In this way, the following can be realized rapid diagnostics no matter where the specialist is located. With this, it is possible to reach more regionsas there are many localities that do not have all medical services in health centers. The use of state-of-the-art ultrasound scanners means that more patients can receive a quick and accurate diagnosis, avoiding the need to travel to other regions that have more resources.
The use of these ultrasound scanners incorporating the latest technology provides an improvement in the health sector, so that now the Asturian region will be able to offer an effective and high quality diagnostic imaging, reducing efforts and limitations.
by 4D Medical | Oct 31, 2024 | Medical equipment, Medical techniques
The magnetic resonance imagingalso known by its acronym IRM, is a non-invasive diagnostic imaging technique which produces three-dimensional anatomical images. The MRI uses powerful magnets and radiofrequency waves which allow the creation of detailed images of the organs, tissues and internal structures of the body. Unlike other methods such as radiography or computed axial tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can be used to create detailed images of organs, tissues and structures inside the body. does not use ionizing radiation or X-raysIt is a safe, painless medical test that does not cause any harm to the patient.
This is one of the most widely used techniques for the production of medical diagnostics, analyze the different tissues and check for any disease, injury or abnormality.. MRI is used by health professionals to examine certain parts of the body and to study the differences existing between healthy and unhealthy tissuesas well as tissues that present abnormal conditions. MRI allows the creation of detailed three-dimensional images to examine organs such as the brain, spine, joints such as the knee, shoulder, hip, wrist and ankle; the abdomen, pelvic region, breasts, blood vessels and heart, among other regions.
To perform a MRI examinationis used, a magnetic resonance medical equipment. In this procedure, the patient is placed inside an MRI scanner. We can define it as a large circular apparatus which is open at both ends. Once the patient is inside the MRI equipment, a series of signals and radio waves are produced and detected by a receiver inside the device. Subsequently, the cross-sectional images of tissues that are visualized through a computer.
What is this process like and what does MRI detect? In the following article, we explain the origin of this medical technique and how it works, as well as its advantages and limitations.
Origin of magnetic resonance imaging
In 1946, Felix Bloch and Edward Purcell independently discovered the magnetic resonance phenomenonfor which they were awarded the Nobel Prize in Physics in 1952. But, actually, its development as a chemical and physical molecular analysis procedure took place in the period between 1950 and 1970. Beginning in 1971, Raymond Damadian demonstrated that MRI relaxation times differed between healthy and tumor tissues, which led scientists to begin to study this technique for the diagnosis of diseases.
At the same time, in 1973 Hounsfield introduced another of today's most widely used medical techniques: computed tomography (CT), which uses X-rays. The success of TAC The results showed that hospitals were willing to invest in the development of new diagnostic imaging equipment, which also drove the development of MRI. In the same year, Paul Lauterbur obtained the first magnetic resonance image, using a back projection technique similar to that of computed axial tomography.
As of 1980sthe gradual implementation of MRI in clinical practiceto the current situation. Today, magnetic resonance imaging is one of the most widely used diagnostic imaging techniques.
How does MRI work?
The human body is composed mainly of water and fat, so that hydrogen atoms account for 63% of the total number of atoms in the body. The hydrogen nucleuswhich consists of a proton, is used in magnetic resonance imaging because it acts like a powerful magnet that generates a magnetic field around the patient's body. MRI is a diagnostic imaging method based on the absorption and emission of energy in the form of a set of radiofrequency signals within the electromagnetic radiation spectrum. The radiofrequency used in MRI produces frequencies of between 15 and 80 megahertz, making it a non-ionizing radiation that is harmless to the body.
In an MRI exam, the patient is placed inside an MRI scanner. magnetic resonance scanner which produces radio waves that interact with the protons, generating a series of radio frequency signals that are detected by a receiver inside the device. All these signals emitted and detected by the scanner's antenna are processed in a computer, where they are detailed images of the fabrics and inside the organism that allow the medical diagnosis to be made.
Specifically, a MRI equipment consists of the following elements:
- External magnet
- Magnetic field gradients
- Radio frequency transmitter
- Radio frequency receiving antennas
- Computer
How is an MRI exam performed?
To perform an MRI exam, a medical MRI machine is used, where the patient is introduced into a large device that has a circular shape and is open at the ends. This procedure is performed in a special room housing the MRI system or scanner. A member of the MRI staff accompanies the patient into the room, where he/she will be asked to lie down on a padded table and then be introduced into the machine to begin the MRI diagnosis.
Before the test
The majority of diagnoses have a duration between 15 and 45 minutesdepending on the part of the body to be tested and the number of images needed. Before the test, the person must partially or completely undress and is provided with a gown that has no buttons or metal fasteners. It is important to leave all metal objects and other items that could be affected by the magnetic field outside the MRI room. For example, keys, jewelry, cell phones, credit cards or watches.
During the test
It is important that the patient remains still and relaxed.. In some examinations, an intravenous injection of a contrast material called gadolinium to obtain a clearer image of the area to be examined. To do this, at the beginning of the medical test, a nurse will place an intravenous line into a vein in the patient's arm or hand using a small needle.
On the other hand, it should be noted that the magnetic resonance system can produce certain loud noises during the procedure. To prevent any problems associated with noise, earplugs are provided. For the duration of the diagnosis, the patient will be monitored at all times and will be able to communicate with a medical professional via an intercom.
After the test
Once you have completed the exam, images will be reviewed by a radiologistwho will subsequently inform the physician of the results of the MRI examination.
MRI in medical practice
Magnetic resonance imaging is a procedure used to study the differences that exist between healthy and unhealthy tissues, as well as other regions of the human body that present abnormal conditions. Nowadays, it is one of the most widely used diagnostic imaging techniques and it allows for detect a large number of diseases and abnormalities in virtually all regions of the body:
- HeadCentral nervous system, orbit, face and skull.
- Neck.
- SpineSpinal cord, meninges, bone spine and intervertebral discs.
- Chestespecially at the cardiovascular level.
- Abdomenliver, biliary tract, spleen, pancreas, urinary tract, genital tract and pelvis.
- Large joints and extremities.
What does MRI detect?
MRI is often prioritized over CT scanning when the physician needs to have more detail about the soft tissues. For example, it helps to obtain images of abnormalities in the brain, spinal cord, muscles and liver. It is also very useful in identifying tumors in these tissues. MRI has the following clinical applications:
- Morphological applicationsDefinition of congenital anomalies, traumatic pathology, detection and extension of tumors,
degenerative diseases, vascular pathology, inflammatory processes and infectious pathology.
- Functional applicationsThese are functional brain MRI studies and functional cardiac studies.
- Tissue analysis applicationsMRI spectroscopy, chemical shift studies, perfusion studies and diffusion studies.
This diagnostic technique is also used to analyze other types of conditions and as an alternative to other procedures that present greater risks:
- Measuring the presence of certain molecules in the brain that distinguish a tumor from an abscess.
- Identify alterations in the female genitalia and fractures in the hip and pelvis.
- Perform the valuation of certain common joint anomaliessuch as torn knee ligaments or cartilage and sprains.
- Study and evaluate bleeding and other infections.
- MRI is applied when the The risks of performing a CT scan are high.. Especially, it can be used in people who have had a reaction to iodinated contrast media in a CT scan and for pregnant women, because radiation can cause problems in the fetus.
Types of magnetic resonance imaging
We can distinguish between different types of MRI:
Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging or fMRI
fMRI is used for observe the structures and functioning of the brain. It measures the small changes in blood flow that occur in brain activity. This type of test helps detect abnormalities within the brain that cannot be found with other imaging techniques.
Perfusion magnetic resonance imaging
Professionals can use this type of magnetic resonance imaging for to estimate the blood flow in a particular area. It is useful in determining whether the blood supply to the brain has been reduced when a stroke. It also serves to identify areas where blood flow is increased, such as in the case of the tumors.
Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging
It is used to detect changes in the water movements of cells that are not functioning normally. It helps to identifying early stages of strokes, detect brain disordersanalyze whether a tumor has spread o differentiate a brain abscess from a tumor.
Magnetic resonance spectroscopy
This type of test is used for detect brain disordersThe method can distinguish between dead tissue within an abscess and the presence of multiplying cells within a tumor. Specifically, this method can distinguish between dead tissue within an abscess and the presence of multiplying cells within a tumor. In turn, it is used to to assess metabolic disorders of the muscles and nervous system.
Magnetic resonance angiography
Provides detailed images of blood vesselsIt is used to assess the blood vessels of the brain, heart, abdominal organs, arms and legs. In particular, this technique is used to analyze aortic aneurysms, aortic dissection, narrowing of the arteries of the extremities, thrombi in the veins of the extremities, blood flow to tumors and tumors affecting the blood vessels.
Magnetic resonance venography
This is a magnetic resonance imaging of veins. Detects the cerebral venous thrombosisThe presence of thrombi in a vein that carries blood from the brain.
Advantages of magnetic resonance imaging
MRI has established itself as a safe, accurate and effective diagnostic imaging method. Currently, MRI stands out for offering many advantages, which has led to the prioritization of this technique over other procedures, especially computed tomography, radiological tests and ultrasoundsWhat are the advantages?
- It is a non-invasive, safe and painless scanning technique. It does not use ionizing radiation or nephrotoxic contrast media and does not produce adverse effects in patients.
- MRI is a test that helps to assess both the structure of an organ and its functioning.
- Provides a high spatial, temporal and tissue resolution for tissue differentiationTherefore, MRI has an important role in the early diagnosis of soft tissue diseases.
- It has three-dimensional capabilityThe system provides detailed, cross-sectional images of the tissues and organs to be examined. In this way, it makes it possible to detect anomalies that could be hidden by the bones when other diagnostic methods are used.
- Allows you to to perform functional studies. Functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging or fMRI is a medical test used to examine the parts of the brain that are handling critical functions, evaluate the effects of stroke or other diseases, as well as guide brain treatment.
Limitations and risks of magnetic resonance imaging
However, it also presents some risks and disadvantages that are important to analyze:
Increased diagnostic time and cost
The time required to perform an MRI scan is high. For this reason, CT is often used in emergency situations, such as severe injuries and strokes. In turn, the economic cost is higher and there is a limitation in availability compared to other imaging techniques.
Anxiety and claustrophobia problems
The magnetic resonance equipment is a small, enclosed spaceThe patient may feel a feeling of claustrophobia or anxiety. For this purpose, the patient may be given an anxiolytic, such as alprazolam or lorazepam, prior to the start of the examination.
Currently, there are also open magnetic resonance scannerswhich offer an open side and a wider interior. This makes people can reduce claustrophobia and obese people can access more easily. However, the images produced may be of lower quality. But despite this, such open devices can be used for diagnostics.
Magnetic field effects
The presence of implanted metallic devices or materials in the patient's body can produce certain adverse effects. The magnetic field used in this medical technique is very powerful and always active, which can cause the devices to shift, overheat or malfunction. In addition, they can also distort the images generated.
Among these devices are the cardiac pacemakers, defibrillators, cochlear implants and metallic magnetic clicks used in the treatment of aneurysms. However, other devices such as dental implants, hip replacements or spinal straightening rods have none of these effects. Therefore, it is important that people who have any implanted devices inform the physician before making an IMR diagnosis.
Reactions to contrast agent
The gadolinium contrast media can lead to a number of reactionsThe most common symptoms are headache, nausea, pain and cold sensation in the area where the injection is made, distortion of taste and dizziness. However, it should be pointed out that these contrast agents present lesser reactions than iodinated contrast media used in CT scans and CT angiography.
In conclusion, magnetic resonance imaging is a diagnostic imaging technique that provides detailed, cross-sectional imaging examinations that are essential in the detection of disease and for studying virtually all regions of the human body.
Kiko Ramos
CEO of 4D Médica. Expert in marketing and distribution of medical equipment.
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