3.0T imaging also assists in determining the extent of disease, which helps doc tors develop an appropriate treatment plan.
By Gerard Compito, M.D. Princeton HealthCare System
The first step in selecting the best, most effective treatment for any disease or condition is making the right diagnosis.
To take advantage of advances in MRI (magnetic resonance imaging) technology that allow for enhanced diagnostic precision, University Medical Center at Princeton recently added a new, high-definition Signa HDx3.0T (Tesla) system to its MRI services. The 3.0T MRI system provides highly detailed and intricate images for making even more accurate and timely diagnoses. The new 3.0T MRI also dramatically reduces the time a patient spends in the machine.
The magnet used in the 3.0T MRI is twice as powerful as the one used in the traditional 1.5T. In addition to increased magnet strength, 3.0T MRI uses state-of- the-art technology that is able to capture and produce finely detailed images of small body parts, such as fingers and other tiny structures. Because of its ability to clearly image small areas, 3.0T MRI is also beneficial for pediatric patients. Moreover, the increased speed of the machine is a plus when working with anxious children.
The usefulness of the 3.0T MRI meets the diagnostic requirements of just about all specialties, from oncology and neurology to cardiology and orthopedics. The technology enables radiologists to perform bilateral breast imaging, rather than scanning one breast at a time. It produces views of the heart anatomy that are unparalleled, and its exceptional imaging of the brain and spinal cord enables radiologists to accurately diagnose neurological diseases.
For instance, with 3.0T’s superior brain imaging, radiologists can more clearly see plaque lesions that are associated with multiple sclerosis.
In addition to enabling radiologists to make a precise diagnosis, 3.0T imaging also assists in determining the extent of disease, which helps doctors develop an appropriate treatment plan.
The shorter bore (or tube) length means more comfort for patients when having an MRI, especially those with some degree of claustrophobia. It also provides for more flexibility in exam positions. Additionally, the increased speed of the machine means less patient time on the table and that more patient studies can be performed in the same amount of time. The faster technology also helps reduce the need to rescan because of organ motion due to normal breathing.
While the new 3.0T is terrific for special applications, there still remain many studies in which 1.5T is perfectly suited. Many patients receive the same benefit from 1.5T MRI as they would with 3.0T MRI. Prior to undergoing an MRI, patients are carefully screened to determine which machine is the right one for their situation.
As part of the screening process, radiologists are well-trained in precautionary measures. The stronger magnet requires that special considerations be made concerning foreign metals and implants, which could vibrate and move causing internal damage.
Nonetheless, there are few situations that would preclude doctors from recommending 3.0T MRI, if they felt it would be beneficial for the patient.
With the addition of the 3.0T MRI, University Medical Center at Princeton is one of the few health care facilities in the region to offer this exciting, cutting-edge technology to both the inpatient and outpatient populations.
Patients may be referred for an MRI by their primary doctor or by a specialist, whether a neurologist, an oncologist or orthopedic doctor.
Once an MRI is scheduled, patients will report to the radiology department, where medical staff will ask for a complete medical and surgical history. While there is little preparation involved for an MRI, it is critical that a patient know his or her surgical history. Many patients have this written down on a card that they carry with them.
When the scan is complete, a board-certified radiologist reads the results of the scan and reports are issued within 24 hours. Images and reports are stored digitally and enable doctors and medical staff to share and consult faster and easier.
By acquiring a 3.0T MRI system, University Medical Center at Princeton is providing patients with a new standard in medical imaging precision.
If you have a prescription for an MRI, scheduling an appointment at University Medical Center at Princeton is quick, easy and convenient. The MRI hours of operation are from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. Monday through Friday, 7 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, and 8 a.m. to noon on Sunday. UMCP’s MRI suite is located at the hospital’s campus at 253 Witherspoon St. in Princeton.
To contact the scheduling department call 609-497-4310 between the hours of 8 a.m. and 5:30 p.m. Monday through Friday.
Dr. Gerard Compito is board-certified in neuroradiology and radiology and is co-director of MRI at University Medical Center at Princeton.
‘Picky’ eaters
Children’s Specialized Hospital in Hamilton will present “There’s More to Life Than French Fries and Chicken Nuggets,” a free educational program for parents, teachers and caregivers who care for “picky eaters,” on Tuesday, Oct. 12, at 7 p.m. at CSH, 3575 Quaker Bridge Road.
The program will offer advice on “getting the most nutrition from your child’s diet,” “easy feeding strategies to introduce new foods,” and “signs if professional intervention is needed.”
The program is presented by the comprehensive feeding team from Children’s Specialized Hospital. Registration is required. To register, leave a message at 908-301-2600, ext. 2217.

