What is functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI)?
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is a neuroimaging technique that uses magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to measure brain activity by detecting changes in blood flow. It is based on the principle that neural activity is coupled with metabolism and cerebral blood flow. When a region of the brain is active, its oxygen consumption increases, which causes an increase in blood flow to that region. fMRI detects these changes in blood flow, allowing us to infer which areas of the brain are active during a task or at rest.
What is this diagnostic test for?
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is used for a variety of purposes, including:
Brain function research: It allows for the investigation of how the brain works under normal conditions and in different neurological and psychiatric diseases.
Localization of brain functions: It helps to locate the areas of the brain involved in different cognitive functions, such as language, memory, attention, and movement.
Surgical planning: It can be used to plan brain surgery, identifying the areas of the brain that should be avoided to preserve important functions.
Evaluation of neurological and psychiatric disorders: It can help diagnose and evaluate neurological and psychiatric disorders, such as Alzheimer’s disease, schizophrenia, depression, and attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD).
Neurofeedback: It can be used to provide neurofeedback, a technique that allows people to learn to control their own brain activity.
Benefits of high technology in fMRI
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) offers a series of key benefits thanks to the technology it uses:
Non-invasive: It is a non-invasive technique that does not require surgery or the administration of radiation.
High spatial resolution: It allows for obtaining brain images with high spatial resolution, which allows for the precise identification of active brain areas.
High temporal resolution: It allows for measuring brain activity with high temporal resolution, which allows for the detection of rapid changes in brain activity.
Versatility: It can be used to investigate a wide variety of brain functions and neurological and psychiatric disorders.
What is the procedure like?
The functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) procedure generally proceeds as follows:
Preparation:
You will be asked to remove all metal objects (jewelry, piercings, etc.) from your body. It is important to inform your doctor if you have any metal implants in your body, such as pacemakers or cochlear implants. You will be asked to remain calm during image acquisition.
During the test:
You will lie on a table that slides into the MRI scanner. A coil will be placed on your head to improve the quality of the images. You will then be asked to perform a specific task (e.g., read words, look at pictures, or move your fingers) or to remain at rest with your eyes closed. Finally, images of your brain will be taken while you perform the task or remain at rest.
After the test:
You can resume your usual activities immediately after the procedure.
Recommendations for the test
Remember that it is important to follow these recommendations to ensure the quality of the study and your comfort:
Inform about metal implants: It is crucial to inform the medical staff if you have any metal implants in your body, such as pacemakers or cochlear implants.
Remain still: It is important that you remain calm during image acquisition to prevent the images from being blurry.
Follow instructions: Carefully follow the instructions provided by the MRI technician and report any discomfort or side effects you experience after the procedure.
Are there any risks?
Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) is generally safe, but like any medical procedure, it has some minimal risks to consider:
Claustrophobia: Some people may experience claustrophobia while inside the MRI scanner.
Noise: The MRI scanner produces a loud noise that can be bothersome to some people. You will be provided with earplugs or headphones to reduce the noise.
Allergic reactions: In rare cases, allergic reactions to the contrast medium used in some MRI studies can occur.
To ensure your test goes smoothly, we ask that you arrive before the scheduled time. This will allow us to complete the necessary administrative and clinical preparation.
Before the test, we will give you the Informed Consent, a document with important information that you must read and sign.
If your appointment is for a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), it is crucial that you inform us about the presence of pacemakers, metal objects, prostheses (including dental ones), tattoos, or medication infusion devices, such as insulin pumps.
These diagnostic tests are very safe, but as with any medical procedure, there is a minimal possibility of an incident.
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