Medical Advancements
Magnetic Resonance Imaging

 

Imaging Services

Kuakini Medical Center, Ground Floor

 

The Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) section of Kuakini's Imaging Services department underwent a two-stage,18-month process to upgrade its MRI Scanner. On August 21, 2001, the final hardware and software upgrade was implemented to the top of the line General Electric Signa LX Echospeed Plus model.

"The new upgrade takes Kuakini to the forefront in MRI technology," said Dr. Donn Kumasaki of the Kuakini Radiology Group. "A main benefit will be an increase in productivity due to an improved operator computer system with faster data and image processing. It means we will be able to see more patients per day." According to Dr. Kumasaki, the demand for MRI scanning is increasing because MRI is being utilized more and more primarily to evaluate neurological disorders, such as stroke, and also for assessing the musculoskeletal system.

The increased speed of the scanner will also permit physicians to take more detailed scans of the abdomen. According to Dr. Kumasaki, the natural movement caused by breathing made accurate imaging of the abdomen difficult. "During an MRI scan, patient motion drastically degrades image quality," Kumasaki said. "This unit will have faster scan sequences which will help us take pictures of the abdomen in seconds while the patient holds his or her breath to prevent any blurring from the breathing motion."

In addition to its increased speed and processing capabilities, the upgraded MRI will enable physicians to use Magnetic Resonance spectroscopy to more specifically characterize disease processes such as tumors and degenerative disorders of the brain.

Last year, Kuakini upgraded the MRI to take advantage of diffusion-weighted imaging which enables physicians to better differentiate between acute and chronic strokes. Because acute and chronic stroke treatment options vary, differentiating between the two is imperative following a patient's first stroke.

Unlike other methods of imaging, MRI does not rely on radiation and has no known adverse biological effects. Instead, radio waves are directed at a patient who lies within a strong magnetic field. The resulting signals are computer-processed to form detailed pictures of the internal organs and tissues.