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Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) of the Head
About this test
- Test Overview
-
Health Tools
- Why It Is Done
- How To Prepare
- How It Is Done
- How It Feels
- Risks
- Results
- What Affects the Test
- What To Think About
- References
- Credits
Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is a test that uses a magnetic field and pulses of radio wave energy to take pictures of the head. In many cases, MRI gives information that cannot be seen on an X-ray, ultrasound, or computed tomography (CT) scan.
For an MRI
of the head, you lie with your head inside a special machine (scanner) that has
a strong magnet. The MRI can show tissue damage or disease, such as infection,
inflammation, or a tumor. Information from an MRI can be saved and stored on a
computer for more study. Photographs or films of certain views can also be
made. See MRI images of a person who has had a
stroke 
or a
seizure .
In some cases, a dye (contrast material) may be used during the MRI to show pictures of structures more clearly. The dye may help show blood flow, look for some types of tumors, and show areas of inflammation.
MRI of the head may be used to look for the cause of headaches. For more information, see:
See pictures of
a standard MRI machine and an
open MRI machine .
| By: | Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: December 9, 2010 |
| Medical Review: | Kathleen Romito, MD - Family Medicine Paul D. Traughber, MD - Diagnostic Radiology | |
© 1995-2011 Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated. This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Terms of Use. How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
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