Community Medical Center has introduced the most advanced magnetic resonance imaging system available — technology that offers more-detailed images for physicians and a much faster procedure for patients.
“As the region’s premier radiology service, our mission is to provide patients with specialized, state-of-the-art care,” says Joseph Triolo, M.D., chairman of the hospital’s stateof-the-art radiology department. “The new 3.0-tesla MRI represents another step forward in meeting that goal.” |
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Community’s 3.0-tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system can acquire
images at twice the speed and twice
the resolution as the industry standard MRI. Shown here, lead MRI technician
Dan Zonkle performs an MRI scan. |
Magnetic resonance imaging, or MRI, is a diagnostic procedure that uses a combination of a large magnet, radio frequencies and a computer to produce detailed images of organs and structures within the body. While the industry
standard magnetic field strength for most current MRI systems is 1.5 tesla, Dr. Triolo explains that a stronger magnetic field provides for clearer images that are produced much more quickly.
“The 3.0-tesla MRI can acquire images at twice the speed and twice the resolution as the industry standard MRI,” he says. “For the patient, that translates into greater detail of images and faster procedures.”
According to Dr. Triolo, there are numerous advantages to using MRI over other diagnostic techniques. MRI is painless, non-invasive, and by obtaining information that other technology cannot capture, it can lead to earlier detection and treatment of disease. Its impact is far-reaching, with implications for physicians in fields ranging from neurology, neurosurgery, orthopedics, gastroenterology, vascular surgery, endocrinology, urology and oncology.
The new MRI also is larger than conventional MRI units, making it more accessible and comfortable for patients undergoing diagnostic procedures. Because of its size and software configuration, the new 3.0-tesla is also capable
of performing body scans, making it easier for patients in need of scans of the liver, kidney, prostate, rectum or abdomen. The higher resolution makes the 3.0-tesla particularly useful in neurological imaging to evaluate the intricacies of brain tumors, strokes and other brain abnormalities.
The new 3.0-tesla MRI will also be equipped with a state-of-the-art breast coil, which adds to the complete comprehensive breast care already offered by Community Medical Center, Dr. Triolo adds.
“This will give us a new tool for the early detection of breast cancer and has its greatest impact on high-risk patients or patients where mammography is less sensitive in the detection of breast cancer.” he says, “We will also have the capability to perform biopsies with MRI guidance, which is crucial since MRI may
be the only way to identify the cancer. This essentially completes the range
of services we offer for the diagnosis and management of breast cancer.”
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