Anatomy of the Orbit and Cervical Spine Quiz

MRI of the brain (12 & 13)

• Understanding brain MRI imaging is essential for MRI technologists to perform effective exams, interpret results accurately, optimize parameters and stay current with technology.
• Brain MRI imaging provides information about brain anatomy, detects abnormalities, and measures blood flow/diffusion.
• MRI technologists can learn about brain imaging through programs, continuing education, and on-the-job training.

Anatomical Overview

• The nervous system is a complex network of nerves and cells carrying messages to/from the brain and spinal cord to various body parts.
• The nervous system is divided into the central nervous system (CNS) and peripheral nervous system (PNS).
• The CNS includes the brain and spinal cord, while the PNS comprises nerves branching from the brain and spinal cord, forming the communication network between the CNS and body parts.
• The brain consists of three main parts: cerebrum, cerebellum, and brain stem.
  • The cerebrum is the largest part, composed of two hemispheres with nerve cell bodies (grey matter) and nerve fibers (white matter).
  • The cerebellum is the second largest part, containing grey matter (cell bodies) and white matter (nerve fibers).
  • The brain stem comprises the midbrain, pons, and medulla oblongata, connecting the cerebrum, cerebellum, and spinal cord, and having ascending/descending tracts.

MRI of the brain: Specific Indications

• Tumors: MRI is superior to CT in detecting lesions in the posterior fossa, skull base, and pituitary fossa.
• Hemorrhage/Ischemic stroke: Easily detected by MRI, including thrombosis/stenosis.
• Trauma: MRI excels in demonstrating the extent of extracerebral collections and diffuse axonal injury, unlike CT. Disadvantages include longer scan times and inability to visualize the bony cranium.
• Degenerative diseases: MRI effectively diagnoses multiple sclerosis, subcortical arteriosclerotic encephalopathy, gliosis, and syrinx.

MRI Procedure (Brain)

• Patient position: Supine (head first).
• Head coil placement: Ensure proper padding to prevent image degradation.
• Ensuring the patient can see out of the imaging bore to alleviate claustrophobia.

MRI Sequences (Routine Brain)

• Sagittal (T1) (FSE): 500ms, 3-4, 5mm
• Coronal (T2) (FSE): 4550ms, 102ms, 13, 5mm
• Axial (DWI): 8000ms, 84ms, 5mm
• Axial (T2) Flair: 8000ms, 135ms, 35, 5mm
• Axial (SWI)
• Axial (T2) (FSE): 4000ms, 129ms, 27, 5mm
• Coronal (T1)(FSE) (post GAD): 500ms, 90, 2.4mm
• Sagittal (T1)(FSE) (post GAD): 500ms, 3-4, 5mm
• Axial (T1)(FSE) (post GAD): 600ms, 3-4, 5mm

MRI of the orbit and Sella turcica (14)

• MRI technologists need to master specific protocols and techniques for diverse magnetic resonance imaging exams to understand eye, pituitary fossa, and surrounding structures' anatomy and pathology.

MRI of Cervical Spine (15)

• Learning about cervical spine MRI is essential for MRI technologists to perform accurate exams, interpret results correctly, ensure patient safety, understand anatomy and pathology, and collaborate with other healthcare professionals.

MRI of Thoracic & Lumbar Spine (16)

• Dorsal and lumbar spine MRIs are commonly performed due to their prevalence in pain and injury.
• Learning this procedure requires knowledge of patient positioning, equipment, and anatomical details.

MRI of the Neck (17)

• Computed tomography (CT) is the preferred imaging modality for the neck region; however, MRI provides valuable insights in determining disease spread.
• This is especially pertinent for evaluating pathologies involving the throat and tongue.

MRI of the Chest (18)

• MRI of the chest, including the lungs and mediastinum, can be valuable in specific clinical situations; however, it is less common compared to CT scans because of radiation exposure.
• MRI is mainly used when minimizing radiation or scrutinizing specific soft-tissue characteristics.

MRI of the Abdomen (19-20)

• Learning about abdominal MRI is essential for MRI technologists to perform exams effectively, interpret findings accurately, and ensure patient safety.
• Understanding anatomy, pathology, and collaborating effectively with other professionals are necessary for this procedure.

Test your knowledge on the anatomy of the orbit and cervical spine with this focused quiz. From the bones that form the orbit to the nerves emerging from the cervical spine, these questions challenge your understanding of key anatomical structures and their functions. Perfect for students of anatomy or healthcare professionals.