Reid radiology staff putting new 3T MRI machine to work
The new 3T MRI machine at Reid Health Hospital.
April 11, 2022 -- Reid Health Radiology Services has a new tool available to help patients who would benefit from higher magnetic field strength MRI scans.
A new 3T MRI machine was installed recently at Reid Health Hospital, and staff have been busy getting it ready and themselves up to speed on the best ways to put it to use to improve patient care.
Many MRIs are 1.5T, a measure of the strength of the magnetic field generated by the machine. This new equipment has double the magnetic field strength, which leads to enhanced image quality and details for some exams such as orthopedic scans in which smaller body parts are easier to see thanks to the higher-resolution images.
"The 3T technology more effectively enhances changes that occur in tissue resulting from some disease processes and injuries. This makes detection of abnormalities in small body parts easier," said Beth Ingram, MD, Reid radiologist and Radiology Medical Director.
Another area in which the 3T MRI will prove useful is in diagnosing neurological issues. MRIs help in the diagnosis and treatment of brain tumors, strokes, aneurysms, abscesses, multiple sclerosis, and many other conditions.
"The 3T MRI visualizes the brain with unprecedented detail," said Jordan Raynor, MD, Reid neurologist and Stroke Medical Director. "These high-quality images are invaluable in confidently finding the correct diagnosis and monitoring treatment."
"This is state-of-the-art. Having a 3T MRI in a community the size of Richmond is not the norm. It is truly a benefit to be able to stay in the area and have access to advanced equipment like this." -- Gene DiTullio, Director of Radiology Services
A wider opening means the new machine can more comfortably accommodate patients, making scans more manageable for those who feel uneasy in tight spaces. The 3T MRI also is much quieter than other models.
"A 3T MRI is a specialty piece of equipment. It works well for certain procedures but not others," said Gene DiTullio, Director of Radiology Services for Reid Health. "For many exams, our 1.5T MRIs will provide the same amount of information that the 3T can, but there are times when the 3T technology will be very beneficial.
"This is state-of-the-art. Having a 3T MRI in a community the size of Richmond is not the norm. It is truly a benefit to be able to stay in the area and have access to advanced equipment like this."