New high-field open MRI model combines quality advanced imaging with patient comfort LANGHORNE, Pa., July 22
LANGHORNE, Pa., July 22 /PRNewswire/ -- St. Mary Medical Center today
announced that it has invested more than $3 million to add a new, high-field
truly open magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system. St. Mary Imaging/Langhorne
will be the first clinical site in the nation to offer this exciting new
technology. The Hitachi OASIS is a state-of-the-art scanner that delivers
outstanding image quality in an open system environment preferred by patients
for its comfort and convenience.
The OASIS is unique, because it is an open MRI system that incorporates
the capabilities of high-field strength imaging. Although open MRI systems
have been in use since the early 1990s, most physicians prefer the higher
resolution of diagnostic images obtained in high-field strength MRIs.
High-field strength MRIs typically have an enclosed circle design within which
a magnet rotates, and for many patients, this tunnel-like experience can be
source of anxiety and discomfort. Open MRI systems were designed to alleviate
feelings of claustrophobia and increase patient comfort, yet until now, could
not quite match the level of image quality offered by a high-field system.
The high-field open MRI is a breakthrough in advanced technology that
successfully accommodates patient comfort and produces high-quality diagnostic
information for every region of the body. The wide-table design also better
accommodates obese, pediatric and limited-mobility patients, including the
elderly or infirm. In addition, the high-field open unit offers fast scan
times and motion-compensation technology for clearer imaging. A variety of
specialized coils are used for advanced detailed studies of the brain, spine,
shoulders, legs, breast, neurovascular and abdomen.
This new high-field open MRI technology offers patients and physicians the
best of both worlds, notes Dr. Daniel Cohen, St. Mary Medical Director of MRI.
"As technology has continued to progress, the differences in image quality and
patient comfort have been minimized. We can now offer patients the security of
a spacious design for added comfort during scans while simultaneously
providing the most accurate scan results to aid physicians in their
diagnoses," Cohen says.
Magnetic resonance imaging is an advanced diagnostic imaging procedure
that uses a powerful magnet and radio waves to produce detailed
three-dimensional images of body organs and structures without the use of
x-ray or other radiation. Detailed images of the brain, spine, joints, pelvis,
abdomen and chest are useful for soft-tissue injuries and conditions often
associated with cancer, stroke, heart and vascular disease, or sports trauma.
MRI is just one hallmark of the significant growth in advanced imaging
technologies provided through St. Mary Imaging. Digital radiology and
mammography, PET-CT, 64-slice Cardiac CT, ultrasound and bone density Dexa
Scans also are used for diagnosis. In addition, all imaging studies at St.
Mary are conveniently accessible to physicians and medical staff through a
computerized Picture Archival and Communications System (PACS). In 2006, St.
Mary expanded access to diagnostic imaging in opening an offsite imaging
center to better serve the needs of the community. St. Mary Imaging/Richboro,
in the Richboro Shopping Center, provides diagnostic MRI and CT scanning
services for outpatients requiring imaging studies.
St. Mary Imaging is a full-service department that performs more than
250,000 procedures each year. St. Mary Imaging is accredited by the American
College of Radiology, a national quality indicator. In addition, all
technologists are nationally certified and all studies are read by
board-certified radiologists. "St. Mary offers patients a high standard of
excellence across the board, and this is another example of our commitment to
quality care and patient safety. Patients can rest assured knowing that their
primary care physicians and specialists are getting the most accurate
information with which to make a diagnosis," says Dr. Paul Weiser, St. Mary
Medical Center Director of Radiology.
Most insurance coverage is accepted at St. Mary Imaging, but
pre-certification may be required. Walk-ins are accepted with insurance
approval. To schedule an appointment, please call Centralized Scheduling at
215.710.2208.
About St. Mary Medical Center
St. Mary Medical Center in Langhorne, Pennsylvania, the most comprehensive
medical center in the area, is celebrating 35 years of caring for our
community. Its compassionate staff of more than 600 physicians, 2,400
colleagues, and 900 volunteers is committed to providing excellence in patient
safety and quality care. St. Mary offers state-of-the-art technology and
highly skilled physicians and clinical professionals in providing advanced
care for complex cases. Services include a comprehensive cardiovascular
program; the only state-accredited Trauma Center in Bucks County; Emergency
Services with a dedicated Pediatric Emergency Care Center; a Joint
Commission-certified Primary Stroke Center; specialized diagnostic imaging;
obstetrics; a Joint Commission-certified joint replacement program;
exceptional orthopedic surgical capabilities and rehabilitation; sleep
disorders, pain management, and wound healing centers; the St. Mary Breast
Center; and the St. Mary Regional Cancer Center.
SOURCE St. Mary Medical Center
