The Corvallis Clinic’s three MRI Technologists, from left, Laura Kaplan, Mike Stringari – who is also Imaging Services Manager – and Bart Pierce, with the Siemens MAGNETOM Vida 3 Tesla (3T) MRI scanner.
By Hanna Knowles
For The Corvallis Clinic
You’re strapped in, slid through a tube, and hear loud banging noises.
With 30 years in the imaging field, Bart Pierce knows how this typical MRI experience can make some people feel intimidated and uneasy. “Anything we can do to streamline the process, reduce the time spent in the scanner, and make the patient more comfortable,” The Corvallis Clinic MRI Technologist said, “will provide a better diagnostic result and less anxiety for the patient.”
The Clinic has accomplished all that with its purchase of the Siemens MAGNETOM Vida 3 Tesla (3T), an MRI with the latest technology to create optimal comfort for patients, along with offering more diagnostic capabilities for providers.
In addition, this MRI is only one of three located on the West Coast, so far. The other two scanners are located in academic research centers, whereas The Clinic’s machine is meant for immediate application.
Improved patient experience
The MAGNATOM Vida, and its technology, was specifically designed with the patient in mind.
Overall, the larger hole and table provide a more comfortable experience. And for some exams, equipment placed on or near patients will be reduced.
Additionally, Clinic technicians can now tailor exams to fit someone’s particular conditions. For instance, exams that used to require prolonged breath holds can now be conducted with shorter breath holds or even free-breathing exams. The ability to speed up scans or provide a quieter or completely silent scan are also available for certain exams.
Out with the old, In with the new
The opportunity to replace The Clinic’s previous MRI machine could not have come at a better time. With recent FDA approval, The Clinic’s team evaluated the feasibility of bringing the cutting-edge BioMatrix technology to the Willamette Valley.
Mike Stringari, the Imaging Services Manager, said the decision displays The Clinic’s commitment to providing the best care for its patients.
Pierce agreed and emphasized how the purchase provides The Clinic’s patients with advanced technology. “There is no one else in the Northwest that has this type of technology,” said Pierce. “Facilities will be looking to us for how to harness this incredible technology.”
Leading technology
The Vida MRI contains new BioMatrix technology, specifically BioMatrix Sensors, Tuners, and Interfaces. Each of these technologies lead to more efficient exams, advanced scanning capabilities, and more detailed images from inside the body.
“Moving from a 1.5T to a 3T platform we will be able to do more complex neuro-imaging – new 3D imaging not available on our previous scanner,” said MRI Technician Laura Kaplan.
Charmin Sagert, M.D., and chairperson of The Corvallis Clinic Neurology Department, agreed stating, “The better-quality images go a long way to improve diagnosis and treatment of neurological and other disorders.”
The Clinic will also be able to deliver these improved images at a value.
“This flagship machine puts magnetic resonance imaging at The Corvallis Clinic in a strategic position to provide the best images at the best value for years to come,” said Terry Crowder, Director of Primary Care and Ancillary Services. “Outpatient imaging centers are often less expensive than inpatient centers. This machine will certainly provide the best value for your health-care dollar in Oregon.”
