Diagnostic Imaging Northwest Announces the First Extremity MRI Scanner in Northwest

TACOMA, Wash., Feb. 3, 2012 /PRNewswire/ -- Diagnostic Imaging Northwest (DINW) announces the new extremity 1.5 Tesla MRI scanner — a new comfort in MRI for patients.

The GE Optima is the first specialty high-field extremity MRI available in the Northwest. Designed to be more comfortable than a full-body MRI system, the GE Optima is intended for patients needing an MRI exam of extremities such as the elbow, wrist, hand, knee, ankle and foot.

The Optima features a high-strength 1.5T magnet exceeding those of a standard MRI system, and warranting image quality. The comfortable design insures less moving around -- resulting images are likely to be even more clear and consistent, securing a more confident diagnosis.

Unlike the awkward and uncomfortable positions sometimes required for extremity scanning in whole-body systems, patients can relax on a padded chair beside the scanner, reclining comfortably. The open design eliminates anxiety for patients who experience extreme claustrophobia with traditional closed-in tube MRIs.

Dr. Barbara Blankenship, DINW Medical Director, said: "Our goal is to provide patients with the right MRI scanner for their needs. Comfort and quality imaging are our top priority. For some extremity exams done in a traditional full-body MRI system, the way the patient must be positioned is not always comfortable." Beyond comfort, the extremity MRI's open design reduces anxiety for those who have concerns about going into a full-body MRI system.  Additionally, children may be joined by an adult in the exam room.

"With the GE Optima MRI, patients sit next to the system and only the targeted body part goes into the system.  This helps make it easier for them to be as still as possible for the best exam achievable," Blankenship said. "The Optima allows for faster patient preparation and enhances the ease for patients," said Keith Arnzen, CEO, DINW. "We are excited to be able to provide this new capability for our community health care providers and their patients."

The extremity MRI is located in DINW's imaging suite, located in the new Good Samaritan Medical Building at 1450 5th St, SE, Suite 4600, Puyallup, WA. For more information or to view a video on the MRI Extremity visit:  www.mydinw.com

Diagnostic Imaging Northwest provides diagnostic radiology services at five imaging locations throughout East Pierce County, WA, in Bonney Lake, Puyallup and Sunrise.

SOURCE Diagnostic Imaging Northwest