fMRI scan

• How is an image obtained using a fMRI scan?

  > Patients placed in a scanner which produces a strong magnetic field

  > Radiowaves meausre blood oxygen levels in the brain

  > Blood is directed to most active areas
• What type of scan is a fMRI scan?

  Functional
• What are strengths of fMRI scans?

  > Non invasive, no radiation - safe & reliable

  > High resolution images - precise
• What are weaknesses of fMRI scans?

  > 5 second lag time between brain activity - reduce reliability

  > Can't see neurotransmitters - can't fully replace PET scans