High-Definition Magnetic Resonance System Increases Comfort and Enhances Imaging
Alvino Zubia, MRI Technologist prepares the MRI machine in Gila Regional’s Radiology Department.
During 2008 Gila Regional Medical Center installed one of the most advanced diagnostic tools for helping physicians reach confident diagnoses to provide the best patient care. The Signa 1.5T MR system from GE Healthcare delivers highly detailed images of the human body with increased speed, better resolution and unique applications. According to Radiology Director, Stephanie Dirckx, this advanced technology provides shorter exams and greater comfort for patients, while providing higher diagnostic confidence for doctors.
Highlights of the new 1.5T MR system include its ability to tolerate patient motion very well during brain scans, which reduces retakes. It reduces the need for very sick or weak cardiac patients to hold their breath during scans. In addition, the system provides advanced imaging of vessels and has the ability to do breast MRI (MR mammography) scanning. With its computer aided detection (CAD) system for breast imaging, it even “alerts” physicians to suspicious areas of MR mammography studies.
“Some patients can present special challenges when undergoing MRI testing,” says Stephanie Dirckx. “Now, even those who are the most difficult to examine with conventional MRI approaches can be more easily imaged and diagnosed. The system offers easier exam positions and increased comfort for our patients.”
“The addition of the Signa 1.5T MR system complements and extends the range of quality diagnostic services that GRMC offers,” Chief Executive Officer, Brian Bentley says. Keeping up with current technology is expensive, he said, but well worth the cost when a family member gets sick. “We want the most advanced technology there is to be able to take care of the problem right away. Once a diagnosis is made, the healing difference comes with the people that take care of us and the hands we put ourselves in.”
