MR Scanner Offers Pleasant Patient Experience, Compact Design, and High-Resolution Images

A new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) specialty scanner has technology that provides precise imaging with exceptional patient comfort and the 1.5 T image qualities that radiologists require.

The Optima MR430s, developed by GE Healthcare (Chalfont St. Giles, UK) is a leap forward in MR imaging because only the targeted anatomy--whether it is an arm or a leg--goes inside the system. It is the latest in a series of novel health technologies that provide better health to more people through GE's healthymagination initiative.

"GE's Optima MR430s extremity scanner stands out because it ensures high quality images and a more refined, comfortable MR experience for those who have suffered injuries to an arm, leg or even a wrist or ankle,” said Dr. William B. Morrison, director of musculoskeletal radiology at Thomas Jefferson University (Philadelphia, PA, USA). "This scanning technology helps eliminate anxiety and discomfort often associated with full-body MR technology.”

The Optima MR430s is a musculoskeletal MR system that delivers precise imaging of the arm, including elbow, wrist, and hand, or the leg, including knee, ankle, and foot, allowing the patient to recline on a comfortable padded and adjustable chair with only the targeted anatomy positioned in the system. The design is patient-friendly and may provide greater peace of mind, particularly for those who have trouble laying still or feel uncomfortable with a conventional MR system. Moreover, because a more comfortable patient is less prone to accidental movement during the exam, images are likely to be even more clear and consistent.

"Greater patient comfort with uncompromised image quality is at the heart of the design of this system,” said Jim Davis, general manager for GE Healthcare's magnetic resonance imaging business. "By making MR accessible to more patients and providing imaging that's both advanced and cost-effective, the Optima MR430s provides a remarkably improved experience for patients.”

The Optima MR430s can help alleviate the demand on a hospital's full-body scanner. As an addition to a busy radiology department, the system can relieve patient backlogs to increase department efficiency, offering healthcare providers a low total cost of ownership. A small footprint allows for easy siting and lower installation costs, while the lightweight magnet fits through standard doors.

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