Diffusion MRI

Diffusion imaging is used as an adjunct to our routine MRI brain examination. Diffusion measures the movement of water in the brain, detecting areas where the normal flow of water is disrupted. A disrupted flow of water indicates where there could be an underlying abnormality.

Exam preparation

A CDI representative will call you prior to your appointment to provide you specific instructions, and review health and insurance information.
Bring prior x-rays or scans with you to your exam, if instructed.
Because of the magnetic field, you will be asked to wear metal-free clothing. You also will be asked to remove any metallic objects, such as jewelry, watches, and hair clips.
Inform your technologist of prior surgeries or metal implants, such as pacemakers or aneurysm clips.
Notify a member of CDI’s staff if your are nursing or if there is a chance you could be pregnant.
If it is decided when scheduling your appointment that sedation is necessary, you will need to arrange a driver.
Please arrive 15 minutes early to verify your registration.

During the exam – what to expect

You lie on a cushioned table and an imaging device called a “coil” is placed around your head.
Once comfortably positioned, the table moves into the magnet opening.
As images are acquired, you hear “knocking” sounds for several minutes at a time.
It is important to lie as still as possible during this part of the exam.
Your routine MR exam will include an additional diffusion-weighted sequence, which will lengthen the scan by 1 minute.

After the exam – what to expect

A radiologist who specializes in a specific area of the body will review your images (i.e., a neuroradiologist will review images of your brain).
The radiologist prepares a detailed diagnostic report to share with your doctor.
Your doctor will consider this information in context of your overall care, and will talk with you about the results.

If you have additional questions about your appointment or our services, check out our Frequently Asked Questions or contact your local CDI center.