{"id":15368,"date":"2025-01-24T09:12:23","date_gmt":"2025-01-24T09:12:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/hallmarq.net\/2025\/01\/24\/tips-for-positioning-cats-and-dogs-for-mri\/"},"modified":"2025-08-20T10:15:03","modified_gmt":"2025-08-20T09:15:03","slug":"tips-for-positioning-cats-and-dogs-for-mri","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/hallmarq.net\/us\/2025\/01\/24\/tips-for-positioning-cats-and-dogs-for-mri\/","title":{"rendered":"MRI Positioning Tips for Cats and Dogs"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

Proper positioning of cats and dogs for MRI is a critical factor in achieving quality images. High-field MRI provides high-quality images, greatly improving your veterinary practice\u2019s diagnostic abilities. At least, that\u2019s what should happen! However, MRI is a complex system and achieving good diagnostic images requires more than just quality equipment. Knowing how to use and optimize your system to achieve the best results, is well advised. <\/p>\n\n\n\n

Poor alignment can lead to distortion of normal anatomy, reducing the diagnostic quality of your images. Positioning is particularly vital for canine MRI patients. Navigating the vast differences in anatomy across breeds requires a practiced understanding of the MRI system\u2019s capabilities and protocolsA<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Here are some tips for positioning cats and dogs for optimal MR imaging:<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Position the Area of Interest in the Isocentre<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The isocenter is the centre of the MRI bore which will produce the highest quality images. The isocentre is where the signal quality and magnetic field homogeneity is optimal. When placing the patient on the MRI table, ensure the area you want to image is within the isocentre.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Depending on the patient\u2019s breed and size, you may not be able to get the entire area of interest in a single scan plane. A Newfoundland dog, for instance, might require repositioning during the MRI scan to complete a spinal study. As you reposition the patient for the next imaging area, check the anatomic orientation and alignment matches the previous study. Also, slight overlapping of anatomic areas (i.e. the cranial thoracic and caudal thoracic spine) ensures adequate coverage of the area of interest and eliminates the potential of areas of interest not being imaged.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Determine the Patient\u2019s Anatomic Orientation<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Positioning the MRI patient for proper alignment should never be rushed. Taking the time to position the patient will ultimately save far more time than having to start over when you realize the images you produced are not diagnostic quality or are not imaging the region of interest.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

If there is sidedness to the imaged region, evaluate for symmetry. For example, in a brain study, evaluate the patient is aligned and the anatomic areas are symmetric between the two sides (i.e., are the temporomandibular joints and orbits aligned). Proper alignment will increase the confidence that asymmetry of a brain structure is due to a pathologic lesion and not from poor patient positioning.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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Use a Localizer to Check Positioning<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Dog MRI patients should be aligned along the sagittal, transverse and dorsal planes. Once the patient is positioned in the MRI, using a localzer in all three planes enables you to plan the sequence with greater precision. Once the patient is positioned ask yourself the following questions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n