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Advances in Imaging Services Magnetic Resonance Imaging Scanner Unveiled 
San Jacinto Methodist Hospital MRI Technologist
Scott Blackwell assists Jerry Simpson during his scan.
San Jacinto Methodist Hospital recently upgraded its magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner. The MRI scanner combines a larger opening for obese and claustrophobic patients, and has the ability to capture high-field quality diagnostic images. The technology uses both magnetism and radio waves to produce ultraclear images of various parts of the body. The opening of the scanner is nearly 2.3 feet in diameter and has almost one foot of free space between a patient's head and the magnet. The scanner consists of a large magnet that is approximately four feet long and allows more than 60 percent of exams to be completed with the patient's head outside the opening, helping to ease claustrophobia. It has a radio transmitter and receiver that collect information about the scanned area. This information produces images of the soft tissue, allowing physicians to distinguish between healthy and diseased tissue.In addition, the MRI can perform advanced clinical applications, producing the highest resolution images in a short time. Jerry Simpson, one of the first patients to use the new MRI scanner, was pleased by the ease of the process. "This scan seemed to be shorter and much more comfortable. I didn't feel confined," says Simpson. "I chose San Jacinto Methodist Hospital because it is so close to home and the technology is just as advanced – if not better – than other facilities. From start to finish the process was seamless." To learn more about the MRI scanner or additional imaging services at San Jacinto Methodist Hospital, please call 281-420-8545.
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