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| Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses a magnetic field and radio waves to create cross-sectional images of your head, body, muscles and blood flow. Because an MRI provides a clear view of internal organs and tissues, it helps physicians diagnose injuries and other health conditions much faster than with other technologies. |
Our new MRI increases our efficiency and patient convenience. The patient-friendly design of this magnet makes it easier for large patients and those with claustrophobia to have a MRI examination which produces higher quality images. This will potentially reduce the need to repeat and interrupt exams.
At Gadsden Regional, we believe all patients deserve the same access to innovative medical imaging technology used for visualization, diagnosis and treatment planning of cancer, diabetes, heart and vascular disorders and other diseases associated with obesity.
Since two-thirds of American adults are overweight, the health care industry is challenged to accommodate larger patients with imaging systems that were designed for people who weigh much less. Currently, patients too large to fit inside the bore of a high-field MRI magnet have image studies done in open MRI systems with low-field magnets. This limits the diagnostic usefulness of the images obtained. The field strength of a magnet is measured in units of Tesla – the higher the number, the higher the field strength. The higher the field strength, the better the quality of images produced.
Claustrophobic patients present another challenge for MRI systems. They can be sedated, adding to their inconvenience and the time it takes to schedule and perform an exam.
The Siemens Medical Solutions MAGNETOM Espree installed at Gadsden Regional Medical Center features a bore opening of nearly 2.3 feet in diameter and almost one foot of free space between a patient’s head and the magnet. The Espree also features the shortest 1.5 Tesla magnet available. Approximately four feet long, the magnet allows more than 60 percent of exams to be completed with the patient’s head outside the bore, helping to ease claustrophobia.
Our new system provides up to four times more signal-to-noise ratio over traditional open MR designs, which is desirable in imaging larger patients. In addition, the Espree can perform advanced clinical applications in less time, because it combines strong gradient performance with Siemens’ Total imaging matrix (Tim™) technology. Tim is the first whole body surface coil design that enables the highest resolution images in a shorter acquisition time. Tim coils are very light, making them both easy to position and tolerate when scanning larger patients, improving cooperation.
The MAGNETOM Espree provides best patient comfort and high-quality images and diagnostic confidence for all types of patients.
For patients who have pacemakers or implantable cardioverter defibrillators, a computed tomography (CT ) scan may be a safer imaging tool. (The devices may malfunction during an MRI scan).
Our team of knowledgeable and friendly health care professionals offer flexible, extended hours with Saturday appointments available. Office hours are 6 a.m. to 7 p.m., Monday through Saturday. For an appointment or for more information, call 256-494-4600.