1
Brain Imaging Techniques
A scan that combines a series of 2D x-ray photos to create detailed cross-sectional images of the brain.
2
MRI
Magnetic Resonance Imaging; A scan that uses magnetic fields and radio waves to change the alignment of hydrogen atoms within the brain
- after the radio waves are switched of, the atoms realign using electromagnetic signals; these signals are then used to produce 2D images of a slice of the brain or full 3D image of the brain
- can see structural abnormalities of the brain such as changes in white and grey matter, cysts, tumors, and bleeding.
3
Strengths
- non-invasive
- no radiation exposure
- good resolution
4
Weaknesses
- magnetic fields; can't be done with metal implants
- high resolution may cause irrelevant details to be picked up
- enclosed space may cause stress/anxiety
- expensive
5
Study Used
Maguire et al. (2004): The Taxi Driver and the Hippocampus