Brain MRI Protocol

The protocol below represents a full brain exam. There is variation depending on the clinical question and clinician preference. Note that some sequences such as the DWI have specific use cases and should be considered required if their indication is present, ie if an ischemic stroke is the clinical question, don't skip the DWI! It is highly suggested to acquire at last one post contrast series with fat saturation. For scanning technique, see the Brain MRI Guide

Disclaimer: Please keep in mind any parameters, positioning, or coil selections listed are meant to serve as a guideline, your particular scanner specifications and coil set may vary, necessitating different parameters than those listed.

Position: Supine or Prone

Coil: Flex coil, Quad Knee, Spine Coil, or Knee Coil

Parameters:

• FOV: Sm (12cm) Med (15cm) Lg (18cm)
• Resolution: 0.6mm x 0.8mm
• Slice Thickness: 2.5-3.5mm
• Averages/NEX: 4

Sagittal T2
Axial T2
Axial T2 FLAIR
Axial T2* GRE
Axial DWI
Axial T1
Contrast
Sagittal T1
Axial T1
Dorsal T1