This allows multiple coils to be placed on the body simultaneously thus providing use of two at one time during the exam. This offers optimal image quality for specific body parts, but eliminates the patient repositioning necessary with other MRI scanners, thereby shortening exam times. The soft design also promotes patient comfort. Chest studies now done in the helical, or spiral mode, are completed within a single breath-hold, resulting in virtually no respiratory reading inaccuracies. This means less chance of time consuming retakes and unclear images due to movement.
Maneuverability is another plus with the new system.
Since the table moves all the way to the floor, it is easier for patients to manage. Additionally, the gantry, or opening, is larger giving greater confort for those who may feel claustrophobic in smaller units. The total patient benefit includes scans that can be accomplished three to four times faster, higher resolution images, greater maneuverability and the option to rotate images and create three-dimensional displays. The recently installed Toshiba CAS-330B angiography suite replaced the previous suite which was eight years old. Angiography is a specific type of x-ray procedure that allows blockages of arteries to be viewed and recorded.