Advantages of the Hitachi Oasis Open High-Field MRI

The Hitachi Oasis Open High-Field MRI features a patient-centric design that can successfully accommodate patients who may be difficult to scan. Challenging patients such as pediatric, geriatric, bariatric, and claustrophobic also appreciate this open architecture environment. Here are some of the most known advantages to using this advanced MRI machine on patients who have unique scanning needs.

Pediatric Imaging 
The Hitachi Oasis Open High-Field MRI features an innovative open architecture design that ultimately present parents with the opportunity to have continuous contact with their child during the MRI scan. The possibility for constant parent and child interaction ensures that even the smallest patients have the ideal MRI experience. The unlimited access usually results in low sedation rates among children as these young patients will feel comforted by their parents throughout the entire scan. 

Geriatric Imaging 
The open architecture design is also great for geriatric patients who would like to have a friend or loved one nearby throughout the exam. Additionally, the practical feature enables technologists to easily observe the patient from anywhere around the magnet. The ultra wide geriatric imaging area enhances accessibility and comfort for older patients as the 32-inch table can be lowered to 20 inches. The adjustable table greatly reduces the strain and struggle during the set-up stages. 

Bariatric Imaging 
This state-of-the-art adjustable table also accommodates larger patients who may have difficulty positioning themselves on the machine. The table can withstand a maximum weight of 660 pounds, and even accepts patients with broad shoulders. The table is equipped with 3-axis motorized movement for a technologist’s convenience. The machine also offers an XL Flex Body coil, which is the largest receiver coil available that delivers a superb image quality. 

Claustrophobic Imaging
This MRI product is recognized for offering patients an anxiety-free environment. Because the open architecture design is complete with a wide table, patients have an unobstructed view on their left and right as well as plenty of space to reposition their bodies during the scan. Designed with RADAR technology, the machine’s ability to account for movement throughout the scan reduces rescans and improves image quality. 

General Knowledge for MRI Scanning Safety

Most scientists believe that the magnetic fields in medical imaging are nonhazardous to the human body. Since standard MRI equipment does not use ionizing radiation, the contrast materials and parts have an extremely low incidence of harmful side effects. Despite these claims, medical facilities should still strive to maintain an extremely safe environment during imaging services in order to prevent bodily damage and even death. Here are some tips to ensuring optimal safety when performing an MRI scan. 

General Knowledge for MRI Scanning Safety 

Most MRI scans occur between 20 and 60 minutes, and patients should not experience any discomfort. In order to ensure optimal safety, patients and medical staff should be thoroughly screened for metal objects prior to entering the scan room. These metal objects are often found inside the body in the form of implants including:

• Pacemakers, which may malfunction during a scan or when near the MRI machine.
• Aneurysm clips in the brain can be torn, which will cause damage to arteries if the magnet from the scanning equipment or parts moves them.
• Metallic fragments in the eye could cause damage or blindness when in contact with the MRI machine.
• Dental implants may be dislodged while in the presence of a strong magnetic field.
• Modern surgical implants such as artificial joints, stents, and staples are less likely to be a safety risk, but patients should consult with their doctor as some orthopedic hardware can distort images in the scan.

Small objects like scissors, paperclips, stethoscopes, keys, and jewelry can serve as dangerous projectiles when forcefully pulled from the pockets or the body without warning. Slightly bigger items such as vacuum cleaners, oxygen tanks, heart monitors, patient stretchers, and IV poles can pose a huge risk as well. 

Most medical facilities will not place pregnant women in a MRI machine due to the limited research of the biological effects of magnetic fields on a developing fetus. The decision to scan pregnant women is determined on a case-by-case basis between the MRI radiologist and the patient’s obstetrician. 

How to Solve the Most Common MRI Machine Problems

MRI machines are one of the most common equipments that doctors use to detect certain medical conditions. Despite their distinguished effectiveness, these products are still prone to occasional malfunction. Here are the solutions to a MRI machine’s prevalent service problems. 

Helium is Low 
In order to produce accurate results, MRI machines require the use of superconductors to create a powerful magnetic field during the imagining. Superconducting magnets can perform their job more efficiently when they are kept cool by liquid helium. When helium levels are low in MRI machines, there is most likely a problem with the cooling system. Because the rate of helium dissipation increases as the amount of helium in the system decreases, a MRI machine with low helium levels should be repaired immediately. According to experts, professionals are urged to check the helium levels in a MRI machine at least once a week. 

Power Outages
Most MRI machines are subject to power outages during unfavorable weather conditions. When these power outages occur, the MRI machine has problems starting and shutting down. These glitches can usually be resolved by simply resetting the breakers for the section of the building that houses this medical equipment. Afterwards, professionals may need to fully reset the system on the MRI machine. 

Image Artifacts 
Image artifacts such as graininess and lines are any features that appear in the medical scan, which were not present in the original imaged object. These abnormalities in the medial scan are most likely due to wear and tear on the MRI coils. MRI coils can be easily repaired by an experienced service provider who specializes in MRI equipment. In order to prevent damage to the coils, professionals should periodically inspect the condition of these parts. 

Temperature Problems
MRI machines are prone to lock-up and discontinue scanning when the temperature in the system is not cool enough. One way to ensure that the temperature is maintained at the specified levels is to feel the incoming water line, which should be as cold as a drink in a refrigerator. Contact a local MRI service group if temperature problems persist. 

How do Doctors use MRI Scans?

A MRI scan is a noninvasive technique that doctors use to evaluate the organs, tissues, and skeletal system. MRI scans may be performed to provide more information about a problem observed on an CT scan, ultrasound, and X-ray. Here are some other reasons that doctors may utilize MRI scans.

• By providing extremely detailed pictures, MRI scans can be used to locate abnormalities in the brain such as aneurysms, stroke, eye/ear disorders, and tumors. The technique may also help predict the likelihood of these benign or malignant abnormal growths spreading into nearby brain tissue. Additionally, MRI scans can show bleeding as well as a loss of oxygen in the brain after a stroke.
• MRI scans are sometimes performed to evaluate the structure of the heart and aorta in order to detect heart defects that may have been prevalent since birth. After a heart attack has occurred, the technique can examine the change in thickness and movement of the muscles around the heart. MRI scans can also examine the extent of damage caused by the heart attack or disease.
• Additionally, MRI scans can assess the current function of the heart’s chambers as well as inflammation or blockages in the blood vessels.
• Many neurosurgeons use MRI scans to obtain accurate information about the structure of joints and bones including joint disorders, disk/joint abnormalities, and bone infections or tumors.
• This technique can also examine the soft parts of the body like the liver, spleen, pancreas, ovaries, prostate, uterus, kidneys, and other glands/organs.
• MRI scans are especially useful after a trauma since they can accurately depict problems related to the vertebra or intervertebral discs of the spine.
• MRI scans can also show the stands of abnormal tissue that are present when someone has multiple sclerosis.
• Along with a mammography, MRI scans may be used to detect breast cancer, especially in women who have dense breast tissue. MRI scans are particularly useful for women who may be at high risk of developing breast cancer.

Important Steps to Keep Your Toshiba MRI System Operational

When it comes to your MRI, a simple malfunction can render your machine inoperable, resulting in a loss of income. It is important to keep ensure that parts are working properly. With simple maintenance, your MRI can avoid breakdown. Read below to learn about some of the most important parts of an MRI machine and about the importance of routine maintenance and replacement of these parts.

MRI Computer

The MRI digital computer system is one of the most important parts of an MRI. The computer is the brain of the MRI machine. It allows you to control your machine, as well as to input information and commands. When the computer becomes non-functional, the MRI machine will not work. It is important to have the computer checked and serviced on a regular basis. If it has stopped working, you can contact a professional service to come out and provide comprehensive troubleshooting services. These services can get your machine back into an operational state quickly. 

Magnet Shim Coils

Magnet shim coils helps to adjust the homogeneity of the magnetic field of your MRI machine. There must be a solid magnetic field around the patient’s body in order to get a detailed crisp image. The magnet can only achieve this type of image if the MRI machine's shim coils are working properly. Shimming ensures that the magnetic field remains uniform and strong during MRI scans. Proper maintenance of these coils ensure that your machine continues to provide detailed radiological images. 

Each of these important parts of an MRI machine must be inspected on a regular basis and properly maintained by a professional Toshiba MRI servicer. It is important to choose a qualified repair company, preferably one that is part of the International Association of Medical Equipment Remarketers and Servicers. These repair companies can provide the service needed to keep your Toshiba MRI machine in top shape. Many offer flexible service plans that will allow you save money on regular service visits. You can keep your machine in top condition with regular professional servicing and maintenance.