MRI Scan - Brain With MRV Screening Test

Cerebral venous thrombosis often presents with hemorrhagic infarction in areas atypical for arterial vascular distribution. Magnetic resonance venography (MRV) in conjunction with conventional MRI can accurately diagnose cerebral venous thrombosis.

MRI uses a large circular magnet and radio frequencies to generate signals from atoms in the body. These signals are used to construct images of the brain and body organs. MRV examinations focus exclusively on the venous blood vessels in the head and neck area. A strong magnetic field is used to evaluate blood flow patterns and blood vessel abnormalities. A typical MRA examination and a typical MRV examination take approximately 10 minutes each to complete.

You must inform your technologist about allergies you may have and if you are pregnant or are nursing. People with various implants (usually metallic), body piercings or with metal in their bodies (including some tattoos) may have difficulty with an MRI - which utilizes a strong magnetic field. The imaging physician must be informed about these. If you are claustrophobic or experience pain when lying on your back for more than 30 minutes, you may be advised a relaxant to help you through the exam. Please leave your jewelry and valuables at home. You should wear comfortable clothing for the test.

MRVI is used to assess blood flow in the veins and can detect blood clots or other abnormalities. With MRV your doctor evaluates you for a less common health problem that may take a while for diagnosis. Some of these problems include structural vein abnormalities or blood flow problems in the brain, developmental venous abnormalities in a very young baby, and/or blood clots that affect veins, In addition, sometimes, the brain structure of a developing baby or a young infant may not appear as expected, and a brain MRV may give some insight into whether blood flow or abnormal structure of the veins could be a contributing factor.

You will have to lie down on the scanning table, head-first with arms at your side. Coils will be placed around your head. The scanning table will slide your whole body into the magnet. During the scan you will not feel anything, but might hear intermittent humming, thumping, clicking and knocking sounds. Earplugs will be provided to help mask the noise and if you want you can listen to music. A contrast agent (dye) might be injected into a vein in the arm, to improve the quality of the images As pictures are taken, stay still and, hold your breathe when asked.