Radiology Continuing Education

Hyperpolarized Helium-3 MRI of COPD (1.5 CE)

Many advances have been made in the use of hyperpolarized gas for MRI of respiratory disorders. In this article, Lorena Tonarelli explains COPD and how it affects lung morphology. The author then explains how HP ³He MRI works and discusses its advantages over conventional MRI as well as the differences and similarities of the various techniques. Finally, potential problems associated with these techniques and ways to mitigate these problems are examined. Expires May 15, 2013. Approved for 1.5 Category A (Direct) credit for ARRT; ARMRIT; NMTCB. Focus: MRI

Magnetic Resonance Imaging of Brain Tumor (1 CE)

In this article, Lorena Tonarelli defines brain tumors and the role of MRI in their detection and treatment. Principles of MRI signal and image generation are explained. Advantages and limitations of MRI techniques used for brain tumor also discussed, including the value of intraoperative MRI in improving tumor resection and patient survival. Expires July 15, 2013. Approved for 1 Category A (Direct) credit for ARRT; ARMRIT; NMTCB. Focus: MRI

Musculoskeletal MRI Part 2: Bony Pelvis, Knee, Shoulder & Elbow (1.5 CE)

Written by Andy Trovinger, the companion article to the Musculoskeletal MRI of the ankle, wrist, foot and hand points out the benefits of using MRI in musculoskeletal imaging. It explains the differences between the techniques of joint MRI and that of extremity MRI. Anatomy of the joints and the supporting structures of the bony pelvis, knee, shoulder and elbow are reviewed and descriptions of MRI techniques for each are provided. Expires August 15, 2013. Approved for 1.5 Category A (Direct) credit for ARRT; NMTCB; ARMRIT; Florida. Focus: MRI (musculoskeletal)

Diffusion-weighted MRI of Acute Ischemic Stroke (1 CE)

Diffusion-weighted magnetic resonance imaging (DW-MRI) is a highly-sensitive tool for the detection of changes in water diffusion that characterize many brain pathologies, including acute ischemic stroke. These changes represent variations in the random (translational) Brownian motion of tissue water molecules. They are expressed, quantitatively, as changes in the apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and, qualitatively, as changes in signal intensity. In this article, Lorena Tonarelli describes the use of DW-MRI in the diagnosis and management of acute ischemic stroke. She first introduces the DW technique and looks at the pathophysiology of the disease. Tonarelli then explains the rational for the use of DW-MRI in the early detection of acute ischemic injuries, as a means to improve the disease’s outcome. Expires October 15, 2012. Approved for 1 Category A (Direct) credit for ARRT; ARMRIT; NMTCB; Florida. Focus: MRI

A Review of Gadolinium-Based Contrast Agents in MRI (1 CE)

In this article, Dr. Robert Singer discusses the clinical utility of GBCAs. He begins by exploring the properties of the paramagnetic ion, gadolinium. Paramagnetic ions, such as gadolinium, move differently within a magnetic field. This trait makes gadolinium useful for MRI. The chelating process by which gadolinium based-contrast agents (GBCAs) are manufactured is explained in depth. GBCAs are also used for magnetic resonance angiography (MRA), an imaging procedure used to evaluate blood vessels. Current literature regarding the risk for developing Nephrogenic Systemic Fibrosis (NSF) following the administration of GBCAs for MRI studies is also examined. Expires August 15, 2012. Approved for 1 Category A (Direct) credit for ARRT; NMTCB; ARMRIT; Florida. Focus: MRI

Imaging Cardiac Tumors (1 CE)

Dr. Leo Baur approaches diagnostically-challenging cardiac imaging in several ways. Echocardiography, MRI and CT play an important role in imaging these tumors. The majority of tumors that are found in or adjacent to the heart are metastases from the lung, breast or from hematologic malignancies. Primary cardiac tumors are much less common than metastatic cardiac tumors. Expires August 15, 2013. Approved for 1 Category A (Direct) credits for ARRT; NMTCB; ARMRIT, Florida; Iowa. Focus: MRI, CT, US (cardiology)

Diffusion and Perfusion MRI in Acute Stroke Imaging (1 CE)

Written by Andy Trovinger, the goal of this article is to familiarize the reader with the use of diffusion and perfusion MR imaging in the setting of acute cerebral ischemia. It explains MR imaging methods including Fast (or Turbo) – Spin Echo, Fast Gradient Echo, and Echo Planar Imaging (EPI). Expires May 15, 2013. Approved for 1 Category A (Direct) credit for ARRT; NMTCB; ARMRIT; Florida. Focus: MRI (neuro)

Musculoskeletal MRI Part I: The Ankle, Foot, Wrist and     Hand (1 CE)

Written by Andy Trovinger, this article points out the benefits of using MRI in musculoskeletal imaging. It explains the differences between the techniques of joint MRI and that of extremity MRI. Anatomy of the joints and the supporting structures of the foot ankle, wrist and hand are reviewed and descriptions of MRI techniques for each are provided. Expires May 15, 2013. Approved for 1 Category A (Direct) credit for ARRT; NMTCB; ARMRIT; Florida. Focus: MRI (musculoskeletal)

Taking MRI to Heart (1 CE)

Author Kimberly Luse introduces the reader to the MRI evaluation of the heart. She lists the specific physical properties inherent in cardiac MRI and explains special techniques used for optimum visualization of the heart and coronary arteries. Kim outlines contrast considerations in heart images and provides examples of pathology often demonstrated by cardiac MRI. Expires July 15, 2013. Approved for 1 Category A (Direct) credit for ARRT; NMTCB; ARMRIT; Florida. Focus: MRI (cardiology)

Basic Principles of MRI Safety (1 CE)

Written by John Posh, this article defines static magnetic fields and explains how they are quantified. It lists the bioeffects possible from exposure to static magnetic fields, describes cryogens, defines time-varying or gradients magnetic fields, and describes radiofrequency magnetic fields. It lists possible adverse effects associated with MRI exams and provides strategies for working with patients. Expires July 15, 2013. Approved for 1 Category A (Direct) credit for ARRT; CRA [Asset Management, Operations Management]; NMTCB; ARMRIT; Florida. Focus: MRI