What is Brain Imaging?

Brain imaging is the latest technology that enables neuroscientists to "see the inside of a living brain." These brain imaging methods can help neuroscientists in understanding the relationship between specific areas of the brain and their functions. Map brain regions affected by neurological diseases. Invent new methods to treat brain diseases.

Brain imaging

Brain imaging is the latest technology that enables neuroscientists to "see the inside of a living brain." These brain imaging methods can help neuroscientists in understanding the relationship between specific areas of the brain and their functions. Map brain regions affected by neurological diseases. Invent new methods to treat brain diseases.

Chinese name

Brain imaging

Foreign name

brain imaging

Applied discipline

Medical clinical practice

Scope of application

medicine

Scope of application

Applied Science, Cognitive Neuroscience

Brain imaging is the latest technology that enables neuroscientists to "see the inside of a living brain."

Brain imaging is divided into the following five categories.

1. Computer tomography (CT scan): During a CT scan, a beam of X-rays passes through the head, and the photosensitive film forms an image. This method can produce a brain profile. This method only shows brain structure, not brain function.

Second, positron emission tomography (PET): The scanner can generate brain images by detecting the radiation injected or inhaled. Frequently used radioactive materials include oxygen, freon, carbon and nitrogen. These substances enter the bloodstream and are transported to the brain regions where they are used. As a result, oxygen and glucose accumulate in the more active areas of the brain. When radioactive material decays, it emits a neutron and a positron. When a positron hits an electron, both are destroyed, emitting two gamma rays. Gamma-ray detectors record areas of the brain that emit gamma rays. This approach provides a functional view of the brain. Advantages: 1. Provides images of brain activity. Disadvantages: 1. Expensive; 2. Use of radioactive materials

3. Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI): Magnetic resonance imaging uses radio frequency signal detection. Signals are generated by radio waves transferred in a magnetic field. It provides an anatomical view of the brain. Advantages: 1. No X-rays or radioactive materials; 2. Provide detailed brain images of different dimensions; 3. Safe and painless, non-invasive; 4. Patients do not need to make special preparations (except removing all metal items), before You can eat. Disadvantages: 1. Expensive. 2. Not suitable for patients with metal objects, such as pacemakers. 3. Not suitable for uncooperative patients, because the patient must lie quietly on his back. 4. It is not suitable for patients with claustrophobia (afraid of small places), but new magnetic resonance systems with more spacious designs have appeared.

4. Functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI): Functional magnetic resonance imaging detects changes in blood flow to specific brain regions. It provides both anatomy and functional views of the brain.

5. Angiography: After the dye is injected into the blood, angiography uses a beam of X-rays. This method can provide images of cerebral blood vessels.