New 3T scanner one of most powerful in marketplace
Kenmore Mercy Hospital, a Catholic Health facility, recently completed construction of a new $4.4 million magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) suite. This investment represents Catholic Health's continued commitment to offer advanced technology and comprehensive imaging services to patients throughout the community.
The new, 1,600-square-foot MRI suite, located on the hospital's first floor, features an advanced Siemen's 3 Tesla (3T) MRI scanner. 3T technology, the most powerful magnetic strength available for clinical use, delivers the highest-quality MRI images available. Scans from a 3T scanner will benefit Kenmore Mercy's specialties, such as neurology and orthopedics.
In addition to better image quality, the 3T MRI offers a larger "bore" - or scanner opening - ambient lighting within the bore, and nature scenes throughout the scanner room, creating a sense of openness to reduce patients' anxiety.
"The larger bore creates a more comfortable scanning experience for even the most claustrophobic patients," said Director of Imaging Services Jason Judd.
Magnetic resonance imaging uses radio waves and magnetic fields to create detailed internal images of organs, tissue and skeletal systems to help physicians diagnose a variety of medical conditions. The 3T technology doubles the magnet strength of traditional 1.5 Tesla MRI units, while providing higher-resolution images and reduced scan times.
The new 3T MRI scanner at Kenmore Mercy complements a full range of advanced diagnostic technology available at the hospital, which includes general X-ray, fluoroscopy, mammography, ultrasound, interventional radiology, computerized tomography (CAT scan) and nuclear medicine.
