MRI MRI Anatomy and Positioning

Question 1

When imaging the lumbar spine, which position best opens the intervertebral foramina and reduces lumbar lordosis for improved visualization?

Accepted Answer

Supine with legs elevated on a cushion (knees and hips flexed)

Answer

Flexing the hips and knees while supine flattens lumbar lordosis, opens intervertebral foramina, and improves disc and nerve root visualization.

Question 2

For a brain MRI, which standard plane best demonstrates the corpus callosum in its entirety?

Accepted Answer

Sagittal

Answer

The midsagittal plane shows the entire corpus callosum from the genu to the splenium as a continuous C-shaped structure.

Question 3

Which anatomical landmark is used to prescribe the standard axial plane for brain MRI?

Accepted Answer

Anterior commissure–posterior commissure (AC-PC) line

Answer

Axial brain MRI slices are typically aligned parallel to the AC-PC line for standardized anatomical coverage and comparison.

Question 4

What is the preferred patient position and coil for imaging the rotator cuff of the shoulder?

Accepted Answer

Supine, arm at side in neutral rotation, dedicated shoulder coil

Answer

Supine positioning with the arm at the side in neutral rotation and a dedicated shoulder coil provides optimal SNR and comfort for rotator cuff imaging.

Question 5

On a coronal MRI of the knee, which structure appears as a low-signal C-shaped band along the tibial plateau?

Accepted Answer

Medial meniscus

Answer

The medial meniscus appears as a low-signal C-shaped (bow-tie) structure on coronal images along the medial tibial plateau.

MRI - Magnetic Resonance Imaging Practice Test

MRI - Magnetic Resonance Imaging Practice Test

MRI MRI Anatomy and Positioning