LewisGale Hospital Alleghany now offers patients the most advanced magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology available with the addition of Wide Bore MRI. The new scanner provides accurate, high-resolution images for more precise diagnoses, and at the same time makes this imaging technology available to patients who previously could not undergo or benefit from an MRI procedure because of their broad frames, discomfort associated with small, confined spaces, or the presence of metal from joint replacements and implanted devices.
With its greatly increased bore or opening diameter as compared to conventional MRI systems, the Wide Bore MRI accommodates patients weighing up to 500 pounds and enables them to enter the scanner feet-first – reducing anxiety and discomfort for patients who are claustrophobic.
In addition, with conventional MRI technology, quality diagnostic images oftentimes couldn’t be achieved in patients with metallic implants, such as hip or knee joint replacements, because the metal’s presence distorts the image area around the implant. The hospital’s new Wide Bore MRI is equipped with technology that enables physicians to see the tissue surrounding an implant and more accurately diagnose and define an appropriate treatment plan for patients with conditional metal implants.
“This new MRI technology increases both accuracy and comfort and is just one of the many examples of LewisGale Hospital Alleghany’s ongoing commitment to adopting the latest medical technology to improve patients’ outcomes and satisfaction levels,” said Charlotte Tyson, CEO of LewisGale Hospital Alleghany.