CPT® Code 77084

Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), specifically proton imaging, is a sophisticated noninvasive technique utilized to assess the blood supply within the bone marrow. This imaging modality leverages the magnetic properties of atomic nuclei, particularly protons found in hydrogen atoms, to generate detailed images of internal structures. When the body is subjected to radiowaves in a strong magnetic field, the protons resonate and emit radiofrequency signals. These signals are then captured and processed by a computer, which constructs high-resolution tomographic images in three-dimensional sections. During the procedure, the patient lies on a motorized table that moves into a large MRI scanner, allowing for comprehensive imaging of the bone marrow. The bone marrow itself is composed of a mixture of fat cells, which have a high water content, and non-fat cells. MRI is particularly effective in revealing changes in the bone marrow, as it can differentiate between normal and abnormal tissue based on the varying atomic actions of different tissue compositions and the distribution of blood cells within the medullary cavity of the bone. This capability is crucial for identifying conditions such as avascular necrosis and metastatic tumors, which can be visualized due to the distinct radiofrequency signal differences between healthy bone marrow and pathological tissues.