University of Virginia Health System

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U.VA.  HEALTH SYSTEM ADDS OPEN MRI SYSTEM

The University of Virginia Health System has a new addition to its wide array of medical imaging services. A new, $1.5 million open MRI system, operated by U.Va. Imaging, LLC and manufactured by Hitachi, has been unveiled at the Fontaine Research Park in Charlottesville.

MRI, or magnetic resonance imaging, uses powerful magnetic fields to image the body without radiation. Traditional MRI machines require patients to slide into a tunnel while the magnetic fields turn around them, producing claustrophobia or anxiety in some patients. Morbidly obese patients can also be too large for a traditional MRI.

U.Va.’s new open MRI unit, however, suspends the magnetic fields above and below the patient, allowing the patient to see in all directions and have a loved one or technician nearby for comfort or to answer questions. “In the short time that our open MRI system has been in place here at U.Va. Imaging we have found it very useful for a couple of different reasons,” explained Dr. Steve Pirttima, a radiologist at U.Va. “For the claustrophobic patient, the open MRI is less anxiety-provoking. Plus, because of the open technology we are able to accommodate larger patients who would not be able to gain the diagnostic benefits from a traditional MRI.”

“Oh, what a relief it was,” said U.Va. patient Tom Gray of Charlottesville after experiencing the open MRI system for the first time. “Being extremely claustrophobic, I can’t say enough about the open MRI. I’ve had the regular MRI and just wanted to get out. This system is so wonderful you can just relax.”  

The open MRI is available for most diagnostic tests, but in some cases the image may not be the high quality of a traditional MRI. Open MRI is covered by insurance and is the same price as the traditional service.

U.Va. Imaging is located in the newest medical building at the Fontaine Research Park at 415 Ray C. Hunt Dr. For more information on the open MRI system patients and referring physicians can call (434) 243-9198.

October 8, 2003