With the installation of our second new scanner in less than a year, the upgrade of our MRI service is now complete.
The two new Siemens Magnetom Sola 1.5 scanners produce higher resolution images — which can mean referrers receive more detailed information about a patient’s cancer. Additionally, they feature a wider bore (scanner opening), which benefits patients with claustrophobia. Faster image acquisition times could allow us to scan more patients than previously, improving access to our high-quality, award-winning service.
In addition, the new machines will allow us to scan more people who have had implants, such as metal hips, than currently. The new scanners are also an excellent choice for whole-body MRI scans, an area where Paul Strickland
Scanner Centre is the global leader. We have performed more scans of this type than any other centre.
In addition to the impressive hardware improvements, the new scanners feature very advanced new software, bringing the artificial intelligence revolution that is currently sweeping modern medicine to Mount Vernon. Mr Will McGuire, Deputy Superintendent for MRI at Paul Strickland Scanner Centre, said: “When you put together the better hardware and new software, you are looking at insane levels of scan time reduction, with better image quality.”
One remarkable feature of the new scanners is that they will be able to run a prostate MRI scan completely by themselves for the first time. “The benefit for the patient is that you eliminate variability between scans caused by the operator, as every scan will be done in exactly the same way. If your objective is the improvement of healthcare, then it’s got to be this way, in particular given the long-standing shortage of radiographers.”
Ms Claire Strickland, Paul Strickland Scanner Centre CEO, expressed her gratitude to those who have supported the charity over the years and continue to do so. She said: “It’s thanks to donations and money raised by supporters that we have been able to make this level of investment.”
