According to Dr Mark Velleman, leading radiologist and specialist in MSK at LCM, "The Philips 3.0 Tesla imaging system enables better image quality and faster imaging protocols, and lessens patient movement and distress during examination. It also provides a wide range of new and advanced applications, which were not previously possible." The Philips Ingenia 3.0T's Ambient Experience feature, uses ambient lighting to help patients feel more at ease and relieves anxiety levels.
The Pretoria MR Trust, a joint venture between the practices of Dr Labuscagne and partners and Dr Bezuidenhout, Van Niekerk and partners owns and manages MR installations at LCM, Faerie Glen and Zuid-Afrikaans Hospitals and are therefore responsible for this new installation.
"Different options were considered, but the Phillips Ingenia 3.0 Tesla Unit was eventually decided upon, due to the improved image quality as a result of digital RF and broadband MR technology - which improves image clarity and speed, with a wide range of diagnostic applications. Further factors such as the wide bore of the magnet as well as the calming effects of ambient lighting in the MR examination room, were added benefits for patient comfort," continues Dr Velleman.
This is a true paradigm shift in MRI due to higher signal to noise ratios, reduced interface complexity, and a simplified workflow.
"As a result of the installation of the 3 Tesla Unit at Little Company of Mary Hospital, we foresee that current MR imaging can be taken a step further with new and advanced applications with regard to neurospinal work, musculo-skeletal imaging and whole body imaging," adds Dr Velleman. "The oncology community will also benefit through increased image clarity and the capabilities now possible, with specific regard to the abdomen and pelvis, whole body diffusion imaging as well as breast and prostate imaging."
