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a clearer view
3T magnetic resonance imaging
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High-definition
television provides a level of
clarity that gives viewers an up-close and personal look at the
subject. It’s the difference between gazing at someone across a
room and sitting eyeball-to-eyeball across a small table.
High-definition imaging is also changing the field of health care,
producing images so precise that the tiniest abnormalities can be
detected. That means earlier diagnosis of certain conditions and better
outcomes associated with surgical procedures.
The 3 Tesla (3T) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans that use
this cutting-edge technology are now available at Georgetown Hospital
System (GHS).
“3T is the highest magnet strength available in a clinical setting,” says
GHS radiologist Carter Brown, MD. “In the case where you want to
look at the microanatomy of structures, such as the joints, the 3T MRI
can produce better image quality. MRI scans are also more sensitive
in detecting soft-tissue abnormalities, and this is also very useful in
imaging the blood vessels.”
Joint pain is often remedied by surgical procedures. By relying on the
crisp detail provided by the 3T’s musculoskeletal imaging, a surgeon can
pinpoint the source of pain. The ability to isolate the distressed tissue and
operate only on that area reduces time and, most importantly, improves
the patient outcome.
The scanner also is something of a high-tech sleuth. In addition to
answering the “where” and the “what,” it can help a physician determine
the “why,” particularly in cases of stroke. A scan of blood vessels in the
head and neck is capable of producing crisper, thinner images compared
with traditional MRI machines, which can help a physician make a more
precise diagnosis.
“There are small, complex structures in areas of the body, such as the
blood vessels or wrist,” Brown says. “3T imaging can yield an earlier
diagnosis to detect the minute abnormalities in these areas, resulting
in improved patient outcomes.” These scans are especially useful in
evaluating all of the joints—particularly the wrist and ankle. 3T also has
a proven benefit in evaluating the brain after new-onset seizures, as well
as blood vessels of the head and neck.
Additionally, the new MRI scanner is more comfortable for the
patient. The equipment features a large, 2-foot-3-inch opening and 1 foot
of headroom, so patients won’t feel like they are nose-to-nose with the
top of the magnet.
“This is the largest bore that is offered in MRI technology while still
yielding high-resolution images and accommodating more patients,”
Brown says. “The equipment maintains superior imaging quality while
providing the utmost patient comfort during the scan, which benefits
patients who are uncomfortable in tight spaces.”
The 3T MRI is the only one available in Horry and Georgetown
counties. Patients can expect to allot 45 minutes from the beginning to
the end of the procedure, including check-in and check-out. Patients are
required to complete a safety form, which reviews all the guidelines for
MRI usage. Loose-fitting clothing is recommended. Because the magnet
is so powerful, no metal objects are allowed. Most devices implanted
within the last 10 years, such as joint prostheses and stents, are MRI-
compatible. Movement can blur the images, so technologists work closely
with patients to ensure that they are comfortable during the procedure.
Appointments for 3T imaging studies are available Monday through
Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. and can be scheduled by
calling
843-520-8378
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GEORGETOWN HOSPITAL SYSTEM