: Magnetic Resonance Tractography of the Brain
: Magnetic resonance tractography is an advanced MRI technique that maps the white matter pathways (nerve fiber tracts) within the brain by detecting the directional movement of water molecules.
[": MR tractography produces detailed images of the brain's white matter connections to help evaluate fiber tract structure and integrity."]
Key facts at a glance
- LOINC
- 99702-3
- Short code
- MR tractography Brain
- Synonyms
- MR tractography Brain
- Category
- chemistry
- Sample
- serum
- Container
- Red-top tube (SST)
- Units
- N/A
- Fasting
- false
- Population
- adult
- Sex
- all
- Age range
- 18–65 years
- Method
- mr-tractography
- Specimen volume
- 5 mL
- Stability
- Room temperature: 4h, Refrigerated: 24h, Frozen: 7d
- Hemolysis max
- 500
- Lipemia max
- 1000
- Icterus max
- 500
- TAT
- 4–24 hours
- Order
- routine
: What This Test Measures
: This study uses specialized magnetic resonance imaging to visualize the bundles of nerve fibers that connect different regions of the brain. It does not measure a substance in blood or other body fluids; instead, it generates images that show the direction and organization of white matter tracts.
: How the Procedure Is Performed
: You lie still inside an MRI scanner while magnetic fields and radio waves are used to create images. The technologist may place padding or supports to help you stay comfortable and motionless. The scan is painless, though the machine can be noisy and the session may last a while.
: Why It May Be Ordered
: A clinician may request this study to help assess white matter anatomy before brain surgery, to evaluate suspected abnormalities of the nerve fibers, or to aid in surgical planning. It is often used alongside standard MRI images rather than as a standalone diagnostic test.
: How to Prepare
: Follow any instructions given by your imaging center, which may include removing metal objects and informing staff about implanted devices, pacemakers, or other metallic hardware. Tell the care team if you are pregnant or feel anxious in enclosed spaces, since sedation options may be available.
Clinical interpretation
How abnormal results are interpreted and what conditions they suggest.
: MR tractography provides information about the structure and course of white matter pathways and can support diagnosis and surgical planning when interpreted together with other imaging and clinical findings. It is not a laboratory blood test and does not yield numeric reference ranges; results are read by a radiologist and should be discussed with your ordering clinician.
Short name
: MR Tractography, Brain
Frequently asked questions
: Does this test involve radiation?
: Is there any special preparation?
: How will I get my results?
Sources
- 1
- 2Lab Tests OnlineSource
- 3
Click any link to access the full source. PubMed Central (PMC) links provide free full-text access.
This information is for educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment.
This content is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you have about a medical condition, and never disregard professional medical advice or delay seeking it because of something you read here.
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Medically reviewed by WellAlly Editorial Team Last reviewed August 16, 2026. · Read our editorial policy