Crouse Unveils MRI Upgrade

Crouse Health has unveiled its recently-upgraded MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) system. The hospital began the $896,000 MRI upgrade in the spring and had been using a mobile unit for patients during the months-long installation of the new GE Healthcare system.

Crouse’s Director of Medical Imaging Services Brad Hellwig said the upgrade provides enhanced image resolution, quicker scans and the ability to perform exams that were not possible with the previous unit, which was installed in 2001. “We are able to reduce overall scan times while obtaining better images, which means we can catch emerging pathologies earlier,” said Hellwig.

The upgraded system uses 35 percent less power than previous generation MRI systems and requires a smaller footprint for installation. “This upgrade furthers our diagnostic capabilities and provides enhanced imaging quality in less time to better meet the needs of our patients and their physicians,” says Hellwig, adding that faster scan times reduces patient anxiety and increases overall patient comfort.

MRI is a non-invasive diagnostic procedure that uses magnetic fields and radio frequencies to generate detailed anatomical and functional images. MRI scans have an advantage over some forms of scanning because they can image different types of organ tissue without ionizing radiation.