Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center achieves milestone with crane lift of county's first 3T MRI unit

Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center announced the crane lift of its 3T magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) unit, supplied by GE Healthcare, into the newly constructed MRI suite located in the Heart Center of Niagara.

A press release stated, “This pivotal event not only marks the near completion of the MRI Imaging Center of Niagara, but also brings the first 3T MRI technology to Niagara County, setting new standards in diagnostic imaging and patient care.

“The installation process, involving a precision crane lift of the over 8-ton MRI unit into the new suite, signifies a pivotal step in the completion of the $3 million project, enhancing diagnostic capabilities in a region known for its high incidence of cancer.”

Hospital President and CEO Joseph Ruffolo said, “The introduction of our new 3T MRI unit is a transformative moment in diagnostic services for the region. This initiative will allow more residents access to top-tier medical services within Niagara, reducing the need for transfers to distant facilities.”

The press release added, “The MRI Imaging Center of Niagara aims to address health inequalities and improve patient outcomes through high-quality scans, faster diagnoses, and early detection of various conditions, including cancer at treatable stages. The advanced imaging technology will detect early stages of cancer disease, such as breast and prostate, cardiovascular disease and stroke, with highest image specificity, as well as all musculoskeletal disorders and injuries.

The completion of the MRI Center and the acquisition of this state-of-the-art MRI unit will significantly contribute to reducing health disparities and ensuring that patients receive the appropriate treatments they need.

“The center is on track to be fully operational by March, starting a new chapter in NFMMC’s commitment to providing cutting-edge health care services to the Niagara Region.”

Images courtesy of Niagara Falls Memorial Medical Center