Diagnostic Neuroradiology
Advanced Neuroimaging for Accurate Diagnosis and Care
Neuroimaging is a group of medical tests that let doctors look inside the brain, spine, and nerves without surgery. These tests help find the cause of symptoms, guide treatment, and track changes over time.
At Lahey Clinic, neuroimaging is done by highly trained specialists using advanced technology. We work closely with your care team to provide clear results and help plan your next steps.
What Is Neuroimaging?
Diagnostic neuroradiologists perform nonvascular image-guided procedures, including lumbar punctures and myelograms, while using advanced neuroimaging technology to create detailed pictures of the nervous system. These images help doctors understand what may be causing symptoms such as:
- Stroke, bleeding, and blood vessel disorders of the brain and neck
- Brain tumors and cancers involving the nervous system
- Memory loss, dementia, and neurodegenerative diseases
- Multiple sclerosis and other inflammatory or autoimmune disorders
- Seizures, epilepsy, and other neurologic conditions
- Brain and spine infections
- Concussion, traumatic brain injury, and spine trauma
- Neck pain, back pain, herniated discs, and pinched nerves
- Spinal cord disorders and spinal canal narrowing (stenosis)
- Headaches and disorders related to brain pressure or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) flow
- Congenital abnormalities of the brain and spine
- Functional and advanced imaging evaluation of brain activity, tumors, stroke, and cognitive decline.
Common Types of Neuroimaging
MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging)
An MRI uses a strong magnet and radio waves to create detailed images of the brain and spine.
- Does not use radiation
- Shows soft tissues like the brain, nerves, and spinal cord
- Often used to find tumors, inflammation, stroke, or multiple sclerosis
CT scan (Computed Tomography)
A CT scan uses X-rays to quickly create images of the brain and skull.
- Fast and widely available
- Often used in emergencies
- Helps detect bleeding, fractures, and stroke
Angiography (CTA / MRA)
These tests look at blood vessels in the brain and neck.
- Helps find aneurysms, narrowing, or blockages
- Can be done with CT (CTA) or MRI (MRA)
Why Might You Need Neuroimaging?
Your doctor may recommend neuroimaging to:
- Find the cause of new or worsening symptoms
- Diagnose conditions such as stroke, tumors, or infections
- Check for injuries to the head or spine
- Monitor a known condition over time
What To Expect
- Most scans are painless and do not require surgery
- You may need to lie still for several minutes
- Some tests use a contrast dye to make images clearer
- A specialist called a neuroradiologist reviews your results
Meet the Team
Our neuroimaging specialists provide advanced diagnostic services for the brain, spine, and nervous system.
