MRI uses radiowaves and magnetic fields to produce computer images of remarkable clarity – especially of soft tissue areas.  There are no known side effects to the magnetic fields and radiowaves used in MR imaging.  This combination makes it an extremely useful examination in understanding muscular injuries (orthopaedics), understanding brain changes (neurology) and detecting tumours (oncology).

In broad terms, the clarity of the examination is dependent on the strength of the magnetic field, and its uniformity.  Higher magnetic fields (e.g. the 1.5T equipment installed in MDI centres) are only produced by cylindrical systems, with the patient lying in the “bore.”  These systems also have the added advantage of producing very uniform magnetic fields. 

Given that the reason for the scan is to obtain a good image for diagnosis, MDI ensure that it does not compromise image quality.  In today’s environment, this is done by ensuring that each Centre has a cutting-edge cylindrical system.

The modern scanners that MDI chooses overcome the disadvantage of the shape.  Where we can, we choose a wider “bore.”  MDI has installed the Espree – which has the widest bore of any other commercial scanner; in addition the bore – at 120 cm – is shorter than any modern scanner.  This combines the quality of a cylindrical system, with the patient comfort of an open design.

MDI also pay attention to the noise levels of scanners.  Our Avanto is one of the quietest scanners available today.  Patients may ask for music at any time.
In addition to good equipment selection, good images are produced when examinations are given plenty of time.  MDI books appointments at sufficient intervals (e.g. 45 mins per part) to allow the best examination.  This also allows patients to be at ease in a new environment.