Monday, December 28, 2015

Three Things to Consider Before Buying a Magnetic Resonance Imaging Machine



Magnetic ResonanceImaging machines are an expensive tool. The models with the lowest price generally run about $150,000. Top-of-the-line machines cost anywhere from $3 million and more. The suite of rooms necessary to house such a machine safely will add to the cost. Before saying, "well, I've got 650 square feet. Let's buy an MRI!" prospective buyers should consider the following three items extremely seriously.

1. The Critical Aspects of Site Planning

Buyers must take into account everything that might affect the performance of the machine. For example, installing an MRI in a room adjacent to an electrical substation or transformer would skew the images produced. The same holds true if an MRI is installed in the same area as elevators or other machinery with a large number of moving metal parts. When the magnets are activated, the MRI could also adversely affect the other items in the area.

2. The Shielding Requirements of an MRI

MRIs produce immensely powerful magnetic fields. If not properly shielded, the machine will damage computers, wreak havoc with cell phones and tablets and even rip metal objects from people's pockets, purses and backpacks. They require antimagnetic shielding installed by a professional who's well-versed in the necessary material and construction requirements. There are also sound dampening requirements. The vibrations caused by loud sounds can also distort the images produced by an MRI. That same professional will know what is needed in both instances, so be sure to listen to him or her.

3. Patient Safety is Paramount

Any site slated for MRI use must be laid out so as to protect all people nearby, especially patients. The last thing anyone needs is a malfunctioning MRI with someone inside it because someone left a steel mop bucket in the wrong place. A properly designed facility should also be ergonomic for both patients and staff and promote efficient workflow. There should also be procedures in place for as many emergency contingencies as possible.

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