Stroke

Frequently Asked Questions

13. What is an MRI? - cont'd

MRI and CT are equally accurate for determining when hemorrhage is present. The benefit of MRI over a CT scan is more accurate and earlier diagnosis of infarction, especially for smaller strokes. Also, MRI is more sensitive than CT for detecting other types of brain disease, such as brain tumor, that might mimic stroke. However, MRI cannot be performed in patients with certain types of metallic or electronic implants, such as pacemakers for the heart. An infarct is an area of tissue that is dead or dying due to a loss of blood supply. (Answer continues on next page.)