Magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) uses strong, uniform magnetic field and various radio frequency pulses to generate images. Surface 'receiver' coils collect the resultant MR signal which is then manipulated by computer to produce diagnostic images. An injection of contrast medium is occasionally required.

The Claremont Hospital was one of the first private hospitals to install an MRI scanner, which has since been upgraded to a more sophisticated and powerful system (the Phillips Gyroscan 1.0 Tesla system).

The scanner is far less claustrophobic than most scanners. Its funnel-like entrance provides far more space for the patient and almost eliminates any feeling of claustrophobia that is occasionally felt by a few patients.

Due to the strong magnetic forces involved, some patients are not suitable for MRI scanning, such as patients with pacemakers or those who have undergone certain types of brain surgery.

Advantages of MRI include:

• No ionising radiation
• No known risks or side effects
• High soft tissue contrast yielding excellent image quality
• Multiplaner imaging
• Full range of surface coils for high resolution examinations
• Latest software resulting in fast scan times
• Non-invasive

Areas of the body typically scanned using MRI include the brain, spine, head and neck, thorax and upper abdomen, pelvis and joints.

For further information or a quotation, please contact us.

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