A new scanning technology that can image around metallic implants, such as a knee replacement, has been installed at Michigan State University Radiology. The wide-bore, magnetic resonance imaging scanner, or MRI, is the first to come to the Greater Lansing area.
“Clinically speaking, we now have software that optimizes this imaging associated with joint replacements,” explained musculoskeletal radiologist, Ryan Fajardo, assistant professor of radiology.
About 70 percent of MSU Radiology patients have some sort of metal in their bodies. Imaging around a metallic joint implant can cause images to be unclear when using older technology. The new scanner solves this problem.
“There are other distinct advantages of collecting images with our new device too,” Fajardo said.
One advantage, Fajardo said, speaks to the mission of MSU Radiology to advance knowledge and transform lives when it comes to patient comfort.
“In the imaging and health industry, we call it a wide-bore, which essentially means you have more room for the patient to pass through the center,” he said.
Standard MRI scanners are typically 60 cm machines. This machine has an opening of 70 cm. Claustrophobic, larger and obese patients may find magnetic resonance a difficult diagnostic test to undergo. The wide-bore scanner gives these patients an option.
The medical scanner also opens up capabilities for clinicians and patients in other ways.
In addition to being quieter in certain circumstances, the large bore of an MRI provides a non-radiation alternative for patients who require breast exams without using the traditional mammogram x-ray technology.
For more information on the new scanner, visit MSU Radiology.