Ganglion Cyst Knee MRI: Diagnosis & Insights
Ganglion Cyst Knee MRI: Diagnosis & Insights Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled sacs that usually develop near joints or tendons, and the knee is a common location for these cysts to occur. Understanding the nature of ganglion cysts in the knee is crucial for proper diagnosis and treatment planning. That’s where MRI imaging plays a vital role.
By utilizing magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), doctors can visualize the intricate structures of the knee and identify the presence of ganglion cysts. MRI provides clear and detailed images of the soft tissues, allowing healthcare professionals to accurately diagnose and assess these cysts without invasive procedures.
In the following sections, we will delve deeper into the characteristics of ganglion cysts in the knee, explain the principles of MRI imaging, and discuss the steps involved in performing an MRI scan for diagnosing these cysts. We will also explore the diagnostic value of MRI, the benefits it offers, and its role in surgical planning.
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Thank you for joining us on this journey to gain insightful knowledge about ganglion cysts in the knee and the crucial role of MRI in their diagnosis. Let’s begin explorating each section in detail.
Understanding Ganglion Cysts in the Knee
Ganglion cysts are fluid-filled sacs that form on or around joints, including the knee joint. These cysts can vary in size and may cause discomfort or pain, especially when they press on nearby nerves or interfere with joint movement.
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Knee ganglion cysts can develop in individuals of all ages, but they are more commonly found in adults, particularly women. People who engage in activities that put stress on the knee joint, such as athletes or manual laborers, may be more prone to these cysts due to repetitive motion or trauma to the knee.
The symptoms of knee ganglion cysts can vary. Some individuals may experience a visible lump or swelling around the knee, while others may have no visible signs but may feel pain, discomfort, or a sensation of joint instability. The severity of symptoms can also fluctuate, with some individuals experiencing periodic flare-ups.
While ganglion cysts in the knee can often be diagnosed through physical examination, MRI scans are commonly used to confirm the presence and location of the cyst. MRI imaging provides detailed images of the knee joint, allowing healthcare professionals to assess the size, location, and potential impact of the cyst on surrounding tissues.
Understanding ganglion cysts in the knee is essential for proper diagnosis and treatment planning. MRI scans play a crucial role in this process by providing accurate and reliable information about the cyst’s characteristics and its potential impact on the knee joint.
| Ganglion Cysts in the Knee | Causes | Symptoms |
|---|---|---|
| Ganglion cysts can form on or around the knee joint. | The exact cause is not fully understood, but they may develop from damaged or inflamed synovial fluid-filled sacs. | – Visible lump or swelling – Pain or discomfort – Sensation of joint instability |
Introduction to MRI Imaging
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a noninvasive imaging technique that plays a crucial role in the diagnosis and assessment of various medical conditions. When it comes to knee ganglion cysts, MRI imaging is particularly valuable due to its ability to visualize soft tissues with exceptional clarity and detail. This section provides an overview of MRI imaging and highlights why it is the preferred method for knee ganglion cyst imaging.
How MRI Works:
MRI utilizes a powerful magnetic field and radio waves to create detailed images of the body’s internal structures. The process involves the interaction of hydrogen atoms in the body’s tissues with the magnetic field. When these atoms are subjected to specific radio waves, they emit signals that are captured by a scanner and processed into detailed images.
MRI imaging is well-suited for visualizing ganglion cysts in the knee because these cysts are composed of fluid-filled sacs surrounded by soft tissues. The ability of MRI to produce high-resolution images of soft tissues allows for accurate identification and characterization of the cysts, helping healthcare professionals make informed diagnostic decisions.
Advantages of MRI for Knee Ganglion Cyst Imaging:
MRI offers several advantages over other imaging techniques when it comes to diagnosing knee ganglion cysts. Some key benefits include:
- Superior Soft Tissue Visualization: MRI provides exceptional clarity and contrast in soft tissue images, allowing for precise identification and differentiation of ganglion cysts from other knee conditions. This makes it an invaluable tool for accurate diagnosis.
- Multiplanar Imaging: MRI can generate images in multiple planes, including sagittal, axial, and coronal. This enables comprehensive evaluation of the cyst’s size, location, and relationship to surrounding structures, providing crucial insights for deciding appropriate treatment strategies.
- Noninvasive and Safe: MRI is a noninvasive imaging technique that does not involve the use of ionizing radiation. This makes it a safe option for patients, reducing the associated risks and concerns.
- High Sensitivity: MRI has high sensitivity for detecting and characterizing knee ganglion cysts, even in their early stages. This enables healthcare professionals to intervene early, providing timely and effective treatment.
The following table summarizes the advantages of MRI for knee ganglion cyst imaging:
| Advantages of MRI for Knee Ganglion Cyst Imaging |
|---|
| Superior soft tissue visualization |
| Multiplanar imaging capabilities |
| Noninvasive and safe procedure |
| High sensitivity for detecting cysts |
How MRI Scans Work for Knee Ganglion Cysts
When it comes to diagnosing ganglion cysts in the knee, MRI scans play a vital role in providing detailed imaging and accurate assessments. Understanding how these scans work can shed light on their significance in the diagnostic process.
During an MRI scan for knee ganglion cysts, the patient is positioned inside a large tube-like machine, which generates a strong magnetic field. This field causes the hydrogen atoms in the body’s tissues to align in a specific manner.
- Signal Generation: Radiofrequency waves are then transmitted into the knee joint, causing the aligned hydrogen atoms to emit a signal. The strength of this signal varies depending on the type of tissue, helping to differentiate between healthy tissues and the ganglion cysts.
- Image Acquisition: The MRI machine’s receiver picks up the signals emitted by the hydrogen atoms and converts them into detailed images of the knee joint. These images are captured from multiple angles and viewpoints, allowing radiologists to visualize the cyst’s location, size, and characteristics.
- Image Interpretation: Expert radiologists carefully analyze the captured MRI images to identify and interpret the presence of ganglion cysts in the knee joint. This involves assessing the size, shape, and internal structure of the cysts, as well as their proximity to surrounding tissues.
By utilizing specific MRI sequences and techniques, radiologists can obtain high-resolution images that provide valuable insights into the nature and extent of knee ganglion cysts. This detailed imaging enables accurate diagnosis and aids in the development of appropriate treatment plans.
Sample MRI Scan Image of a Knee Ganglion Cyst
Diagnostic Value of MRI for Knee Ganglion Cysts
Ganglion cysts in the knee can present a diagnostic challenge due to their resemblance to other knee conditions. However, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays a crucial role in accurately identifying and characterizing these cysts, allowing for an appropriate diagnosis and treatment plan. MRI offers several key features that aid in differentiating ganglion cysts from other knee joint abnormalities.
Specific MRI Features for Diagnosis
When it comes to diagnosing knee ganglion cysts, MRI offers distinct advantages. Some of the specific MRI features that help in differentiating ganglion cysts from other knee conditions include:
- Fluid-filled structure: Ganglion cysts typically appear as well-defined fluid-filled structures on MRI images, allowing for their identification.
- Location and size: MRI provides valuable information about the precise location and size of the cyst, aiding in the diagnosis and determining the appropriate course of treatment.
- Surrounding tissue evaluation: With MRI, radiologists can assess the surrounding soft tissue, such as ligaments and tendons, to rule out any additional knee joint pathology or damage.
- Internal characteristics: MRI can reveal internal characteristics of the cyst, such as septations or internal debris, which can further assist in confirming the diagnosis.
By leveraging these specific MRI features, healthcare professionals can accurately diagnose knee ganglion cysts, avoiding the potential misdiagnosis or unnecessary invasive procedures.
Developing an Accurate Diagnosis
Accurate diagnosis is crucial in determining the most appropriate treatment approach for patients with knee ganglion cysts. MRI provides comprehensive imaging that allows for the thorough evaluation and characterization of the cyst. The detailed information obtained from MRI scans assists in developing a precise diagnosis, enabling healthcare providers to tailor treatment plans to each patient’s needs.
Moreover, MRI can help identify any additional knee joint pathology that may coexist with ganglion cysts, ensuring that all contributing factors are taken into consideration during the diagnostic process. This comprehensive evaluation enhances the accuracy of the diagnosis and facilitates better patient management.
Example Table: MRI Features for Diagnosing Knee Ganglion Cysts
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Fluid-filled structure | Ganglion cysts appear as well-defined fluid-filled structures on MRI images. |
| Location and size | MRI provides information about the precise location and size of the cyst. |
| Surrounding tissue evaluation | MRI allows for the assessment of surrounding soft tissue to rule out additional knee joint pathology. |
| Internal characteristics | MRI can reveal internal characteristics, such as septations or internal debris, aiding in confirming the diagnosis. |
By utilizing MRI’s diagnostic capabilities, healthcare professionals can accurately diagnose knee ganglion cysts and provide appropriate treatment options for patients.
Benefits of MRI in Diagnosing Knee Ganglion Cysts
When it comes to diagnosing knee ganglion cysts, MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) plays a crucial role. MRI offers several benefits that make it a preferred imaging technique for accurate diagnosis and assessment of these cysts. Let’s explore some of the advantages of using MRI in the evaluation of knee ganglion cysts.
Noninvasive and Painless
MRI is a noninvasive procedure that does not require any surgical incisions or injections. It uses powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to generate detailed images of the knee joint and the structures within it. This means that patients can undergo an MRI scan without any pain or discomfort.
High Sensitivity
MRI is highly sensitive in detecting and visualizing ganglion cysts in the knee. Its ability to capture high-resolution images allows radiologists to clearly identify the location, size, and characteristics of the cysts. This enhanced sensitivity enables accurate diagnosis and helps healthcare professionals develop an appropriate treatment plan.
Guiding Treatment Decisions
Accurate diagnosis is crucial in determining the most effective treatment approach for knee ganglion cysts. MRI provides detailed information about the cyst’s location, proximity to surrounding structures, and potential impact on joint function. This information helps healthcare providers make informed decisions regarding the need for further intervention or surgical treatment.
Avoiding Unnecessary Invasive Procedures
By offering detailed insights into the nature and extent of knee ganglion cysts, MRI can help avoid unnecessary invasive procedures. With MRI, healthcare professionals can confidently determine if a cyst is causing symptoms or if it can be managed conservatively without the need for surgery. This reduces patient discomfort and the risk of complications associated with unnecessary procedures.
The utilization of MRI in diagnosing knee ganglion cysts brings numerous benefits, including noninvasiveness, high sensitivity, and the ability to guide treatment decisions while avoiding unnecessary invasive procedures. These advantages make MRI an invaluable tool for accurate diagnosis and optimal management of knee ganglion cysts.
Role of MRI in Surgical Planning for Knee Ganglion Cysts
When it comes to surgical planning for knee ganglion cysts, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) plays a crucial role. Not only can MRI provide detailed anatomical information, but it also assists in determining the size, location, and characteristics of the cyst. This information is vital for surgeons in deciding the most appropriate surgical approach for each individual case.
During the MRI scan, the images captured provide a clear visualization of the ganglion cyst in the knee. Surgeons can study these images to analyze the cyst’s exact location within the knee joint and its relationship with surrounding structures such as ligaments, tendons, and bones.
The detailed anatomical information obtained from the MRI scan helps surgeons plan the surgical procedure more effectively. They can determine the optimal placement of incisions, evaluate the cyst’s accessibility, and devise a surgical approach that minimizes damage to surrounding tissues. This level of precision is essential for successful outcomes and reducing potential complications.
Additionally, MRI allows surgeons to assess the cyst’s size and extent accurately. This information is crucial in estimating the complexity of the surgical intervention required. In some cases, the cyst may be small and relatively easy to remove, while in others, it may be larger and intertwined with vital structures, necessitating a more intricate surgical procedure.
By incorporating MRI findings into surgical planning, surgeons can tailor the approach according to each patient’s unique case. This personalized approach increases the likelihood of successful cyst removal while minimizing the risk of recurrence or post-surgical complications.
Role of MRI in Surgical Planning for Knee Ganglion Cysts: A Comparative Analysis
| MRI | Alternative Imaging Techniques |
|---|---|
| Provides detailed anatomical information to determine cyst location and relationship with surrounding structures. | Limited ability to visualize soft tissues, resulting in incomplete cyst evaluation. |
| Accurately assesses cyst size and extent, aiding in evaluating surgical complexity. | May underestimate cyst size, leading to unexpected challenges during surgery. |
| Noninvasive and does not require radiation exposure. | May involve invasive procedures or the use of contrast agents, posing additional risks and discomfort. |
| Assists in developing a tailored surgical approach, minimizing damage to healthy tissues. | Limited ability to individualize surgical planning due to inadequate visualization. |
| Enhances surgical outcomes and reduces the risk of complications. | May increase the likelihood of incomplete cyst removal or post-surgical complications. |
From the comparative analysis above, it is clear that MRI offers significant advantages over alternative imaging techniques for surgical planning. Its ability to provide comprehensive and accurate information allows surgeons to optimize the surgical procedure and provide the best possible care for patients with knee ganglion cysts.
Preparing for a Knee MRI Scan
Before undergoing a knee MRI scan to diagnose a ganglion cyst, it’s important to be prepared and informed about the procedure. Here are some essential steps to follow:
- Fasting Requirements: In most cases, there are no specific fasting requirements for a knee MRI scan. You can generally continue with your regular diet before the procedure.
- Medication Considerations: Inform your healthcare provider about any medications you are currently taking, including prescribed drugs, over-the-counter medications, and supplements. Some medications may interfere with the MRI results, so your doctor may advise you to temporarily discontinue certain medications.
- Clothing: Wear comfortable clothing that is free of metal or metallic objects. Metal can interfere with the MRI scan, so avoid wearing items such as jewelry, belts with metal buckles, or clothes with metal zippers or snaps. In some cases, you may be provided with a gown to wear during the procedure.
- Personal Belongings: Leave any personal belongings like wallets, cell phones, or keys outside the MRI scanning area, as these items may contain metal that can interfere with the MRI images.
- Anxiety and Claustrophobia: If you experience anxiety or claustrophobia, inform your healthcare provider beforehand.
During the knee MRI scan, you will be comfortably positioned on a padded table that slides into the MRI machine. It’s important to remain as still as possible during the scan to capture clear images. The procedure is painless and typically takes approximately 30-45 minutes.
By following these preparation guidelines, you can ensure a smooth and successful knee MRI scan to aid in the diagnosis of a ganglion cyst in your knee joint.
| Preparation | Guidelines |
|---|---|
| Fasting Requirements | No specific fasting requirements. Continue with regular diet. |
| Medication Considerations | Inform healthcare provider about all medications. Some medications may need to be temporarily discontinued. |
| Clothing | Avoid clothing with metal objects. Wear comfortable attire. |
| Personal Belongings | Leave wallets, cell phones, and keys outside the MRI scanning area. |
| Anxiety and Claustrophobia | Inform healthcare provider if you experience anxiety or claustrophobia. Options may be available to help you relax. |
What to Expect During a Knee MRI Scan
Undergoing a knee MRI scan is a straightforward process that allows healthcare professionals to gain valuable insights into the presence and characteristics of a ganglion cyst. If your doctor has recommended a knee MRI scan to evaluate a suspected cyst, here’s what you can expect during the procedure:
Scheduling and Preparation
Before your knee MRI scan, you may be asked to remove any metal objects, such as jewelry or clothing with zippers, as they can interfere with the imaging process. Additionally, you may need to change into a gown to ensure accurate results. It’s important to inform your healthcare provider if you have any metal implants or devices in your body, as they may affect the MRI scan. Once you’re prepared, a radiologist or technician will guide you into the MRI room.
The MRI Machine and Positioning
The MRI machine consists of a large, tube-shaped magnet that produces strong magnetic fields and radio waves to visualize the internal structures of your knee joint. You will lie down on a narrow table that moves into the machine. The technician will position your knee in a way that allows for optimal imaging of the affected area. It’s crucial to remain as still as possible during the scan to ensure accurate and clear images.
Noise and Communication
During the scanning process, the MRI machine produces loud tapping or knocking sounds. You’ll be provided with earplugs or headphones to minimize the noise. While the machine is capturing images, the technician will be in a separate control room, but you’ll be able to communicate with them through an intercom system if needed.
Scan Duration and Relaxation Techniques
The duration of a knee MRI scan varies but typically lasts between 30 to 60 minutes. It’s important to remain relaxed and calm throughout the procedure, as tension or movement can affect image quality. If you experience discomfort or anxiety, you can discuss relaxation techniques, such as deep breathing or visualization exercises, with your healthcare provider beforehand to help you stay calm during the scan.
After the Scan
Once the scan is complete, you’ll be able to resume normal activities immediately. In some cases, depending on the contrast agent used during the scan, you may be asked to wait for a short period before leaving, so the medical team can monitor any potential allergic reactions. Your MRI images will then be analyzed by a radiologist, who will provide a detailed report to your healthcare provider.
Overall, a knee MRI scan for assessing a ganglion cyst is a painless and noninvasive procedure that provides valuable diagnostic information. By understanding what to expect during the scan, you can feel more confident and prepared as you undergo this imaging test.
Interpreting the Results of a Knee Ganglion Cyst MRI
When it comes to diagnosing knee ganglion cysts, MRI plays a critical role in providing accurate and reliable results. Radiologists are trained to analyze the images obtained from the MRI scan to identify and characterize these cysts, allowing for proper diagnosis and treatment planning. Understanding how the interpretation process works can help patients and healthcare providers make informed decisions for optimal care.
The MRI Interpretation Process
The interpretation of knee ganglion cyst MRI results involves a careful examination of the images captured during the scan. Radiologists analyze the size, location, and characteristics of the cysts, as well as any associated findings that may be present. Throughout this process, they utilize their expertise to differentiate ganglion cysts from other knee conditions and provide a comprehensive assessment of the patient’s condition.
During the interpretation process, radiologists may also consider the clinical history and symptoms presented by the patient. This additional information helps ensure a more accurate diagnosis and enhances the overall understanding of the cyst and its impact on the knee joint.
The Importance of Consulting with a Specialist
While the interpretation of MRI results is a crucial step in the diagnostic journey, it is essential to consult with a specialist for a comprehensive understanding and contextualization of the findings. Knee ganglion cysts can vary in size, location, and clinical significance, making it crucial to involve an orthopedic specialist or radiologist with expertise in musculoskeletal imaging.
By consulting with a specialist, patients can gain valuable insights into the significance of their MRI results and receive expert guidance on the most appropriate treatment options. Specialists can help interpret the findings in the context of the patient’s specific case and recommend personalized treatment plans that address the individual’s unique needs.
The Value of MRI in Knee Ganglion Cyst Diagnosis
MRI is a highly valuable imaging technique for the diagnosis of knee ganglion cysts due to its ability to visualize soft tissues with great detail. This noninvasive method provides high-resolution images that allow for precise characterization of the cysts and accurate assessment of their impact on the knee joint.
Compared to other imaging modalities, such as X-ray or ultrasound, MRI offers superior visualization of the cysts and can provide valuable information regarding their size, location, and relationship with surrounding structures. This comprehensive evaluation enables healthcare providers to make informed decisions regarding patient care, guiding treatment options and ensuring optimal outcomes.
Overall, the interpretation of MRI results for knee ganglion cysts is a complex process that requires the expertise of a specialist. By combining the insights derived from the MRI images with the knowledge and experience of a medical professional, patients can receive accurate diagnoses and develop effective treatment plans tailored to their specific needs.
Potential Alternatives to MRI for Knee Ganglion Cysts
While MRI is considered the gold standard for diagnosing ganglion cysts in the knee, there are alternative imaging modalities that can be used in certain cases. These alternatives, such as ultrasound and X-ray, offer their own benefits and limitations in terms of diagnosing and assessing knee ganglion cysts. It’s important for healthcare providers to consider these alternatives based on the specific needs of the patient and the availability of resources.
Ultrasound
Ultrasound, also known as sonography, utilizes high-frequency sound waves to create real-time images of the internal structures of the knee. It is a noninvasive and radiation-free imaging technique that can provide valuable information about the presence, size, and location of ganglion cysts in the knee. Ultrasound is particularly useful for identifying the cysts’ relationship with surrounding structures, such as tendons and ligaments. However, ultrasound may not always provide as detailed images as MRI, especially when assessing deep-seated or complex cysts.
X-ray
X-ray imaging uses small amounts of radiation to create images of the bones in the knee joint. While X-rays cannot directly visualize ganglion cysts themselves, they can help identify other knee conditions that may cause similar symptoms, such as osteoarthritis or fractures. X-rays are quick and readily available, making them a useful initial screening tool. However, X-rays do not provide detailed information about soft tissues like ganglion cysts, making MRI or ultrasound necessary for a more accurate diagnosis.
It is important for healthcare providers to evaluate the specific needs of each patient and consider the advantages and limitations of these alternative imaging modalities in diagnosing ganglion cysts in the knee. In some cases, a combination of imaging techniques may be required to obtain a comprehensive assessment of the cysts and guide appropriate treatment decisions.
Conclusion
The accurate diagnosis and assessment of ganglion cysts in the knee is crucial for effective treatment and management. MRI imaging plays a vital role in achieving this, providing detailed and noninvasive visualization of these cysts. By utilizing MRI, healthcare providers like Acibadem Healthcare Group can offer comprehensive services for knee joint conditions, including the diagnosis of ganglion cysts.
MRI enables radiologists to identify and characterize ganglion cysts with high precision, helping physicians make informed decisions regarding treatment pathways. The diagnostic value of MRI lies in its ability to differentiate ganglion cysts from other knee conditions, providing valuable insights into their size, location, and impact on surrounding structures.
With advanced MRI technology and the expertise of specialists, healthcare providers like Acibadem Healthcare Group ensure accurate and reliable results for patients seeking diagnosis and assessment of knee ganglion cysts. By leveraging MRI’s benefits, such as noninvasiveness and high sensitivity, patients can receive appropriate and timely treatment, leading to improved outcomes and quality of life.
FAQ
What is a ganglion cyst in the knee?
A ganglion cyst in the knee is a fluid-filled sac that often forms near the joints or tendons. It is most commonly found around the knee joint and can cause pain, swelling, and limited mobility.
How is a ganglion cyst in the knee diagnosed?
One of the most effective ways to diagnose a ganglion cyst in the knee is through an MRI scan. MRI imaging provides detailed images of the soft tissues in the knee joint, allowing doctors to accurately identify and assess the presence of a ganglion cyst.
Why is an MRI scan used for diagnosing knee ganglion cysts?
MRI scans are particularly useful for diagnosing knee ganglion cysts because they provide clear and detailed images of the soft tissues, allowing for a more accurate evaluation of the size, location, and characteristics of the cyst. MRI is a noninvasive and painless imaging technique that does not involve exposure to radiation.
What happens during a knee MRI scan for a ganglion cyst?
During a knee MRI scan, you will lie down on a movable table that slides into a tube-shaped scanner. You may be given a contrast agent to enhance the visibility of certain structures in the knee. The MRI machine will then generate images of your knee joint, which will be interpreted by a radiologist.
What are the benefits of using MRI for diagnosing knee ganglion cysts?
MRI is beneficial for diagnosing knee ganglion cysts because it is noninvasive, provides highly detailed images of the soft tissues, and allows for an accurate evaluation of the cyst's characteristics. This helps in making a precise diagnosis and determining the most appropriate treatment approach.
Can MRI scans assist in surgical planning for knee ganglion cysts?
Yes, MRI scans play a crucial role in surgical planning for knee ganglion cysts. By providing detailed anatomical information about the cyst and its relationship to surrounding structures, MRI enables surgeons to plan and execute surgical procedures with precision and minimize the risk of complications.
How should I prepare for a knee MRI scan?
Before a knee MRI scan, you may be asked to remove any metallic objects and change into a gown. You should inform your healthcare provider about any medical implants or devices you have. It is also important to inform them of any allergies or health conditions that may affect the procedure or the use of contrast agents.
What can I expect during a knee MRI scan?
During a knee MRI scan, you will be positioned on a table that moves into the MRI machine. The scan itself is painless, but you will hear loud noises from the machine. You will be asked to remain still during the scan to ensure clear images. The procedure usually takes around 30 to 60 minutes.
How are the results of a knee ganglion cyst MRI interpreted?
The images from a knee ganglion cyst MRI scan are analyzed by a radiologist who specializes in musculoskeletal imaging. They will evaluate the size, location, and characteristics of the cyst, compare it to normal knee anatomy, and provide a detailed report to your referring physician for further diagnosis and treatment planning.
Are there alternatives to MRI for diagnosing ganglion cysts in the knee?
While MRI is the most reliable imaging modality for diagnosing ganglion cysts in the knee, other imaging techniques such as ultrasound or X-ray may be used in certain cases. However, these alternatives may not provide the same level of detail and accuracy as an MRI scan.
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