OAI Takes Imaging Technology to New Level

Monday, February 5, 2007 – Oregon Advanced Imaging (OAI) announced today the purchase of the first 3.0 tesla magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner in the region. The new scanner will provide physicians and their patients access to technology previously available only in top medical schools, teaching hospitals, and large metropolitan areas.

The quality of an MRI image is largely determined by the strength of the magnet which is measured in tesla’s. The higher the tesla strength, the clearer the images and the faster an exam can be performed. The advanced technology of the Siemens Magnetom Trio 3.0 tesla (3T) provides 3D imaging with sub-millimeter resolution for all regions of the body. The new scanner will be especially useful in the examination of neurological disorders, vascular diseases and musculoskeletal related conditions. OAI will be able to acquire images with vastly greater resolution than what is now possible in our region. The 3T MRI can distinguish the cortical layers in the brain, peripheral arteries of the vascular system, and cartilage texture in joints during the course of an average exam. “The 3T MRI takes magnetic resonance imaging to a new level,” says Carol Flinn, OAI’s Executive Director. "The new scanner will be invaluable for patients with complicated health issues. It will also provide area physicians with a safer and less costly tool which can replace more invasive diagnostic surgical procedures.”

The 3T MRI has also made great strides from a patient’s perspective. The new scanner can accommodate patients up to 440 pounds, and for claustrophobic patients, many exams can now be completed feet-first. In addition, the Siemens 3T reduces acoustic noise level by up to 90 percent making the imaging experience more pleasant for the patient.

The new 3.0 tesla scanner is scheduled to be in operation at OAI’s newest location at Navigator Landing, across from the Medford Airport, by July of this year. The facility was completed last year and also houses the only Espree open bore high-field 1.5 tesla MRI in the region.

Oregon Advanced Imaging is a community partnership of Rogue Valley Medical Center, Providence Medford Medical Center, and Medford Radiological Group, and provides high-field MRI and PET/CT imaging services at four locations throughout Medford. All OAI facilities are accredited in MRI diagnostic imaging by the American College of Radiology.

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