"The Magnetom Avanto symbolizes a new era of MR image quality and efficiency that allows us to obtain high resolution full-body images without ever stopping to reposition the patient," said Bryan Maupin, M.D., a Radiologist from Bryan Radiology Associates. "This system will enable us to diagnose and treat patients in a more timely and comfortable manner. It’s much quieter than conventional MR scanners and allows feet-first examinations, greatly decreasing anxiety for patients who are uncomfortable in small spaces."

The new system cost more than $1.5 million and required modifications and renovations to St Joseph’s existing MRI building, located at their Bryan campus. "This state-of-the-art scanner provides an opportunity to expand our capabilities in all imaging areas," said Mark Kicklighter, Director of Imaging Services for SJRHC, "This scanner will allow us to take our clinical efforts to the next level." The Avanto system has the capacity to conduct non-invasive cardiac diagnostics on patients with possible heart problems. Additionally, the new MRI will enhance the assessment of possible brain damage of stroke patients.

"The Avanto will allow for imaging in a single sweep," said Rocky Velasquez, Assistant Director of SJRHC’s Imaging Services. "The system has the better field and gradient strength - which provides a sharper image - than any MRI machine in the area."

Velasquez added that the machine has features which reduce the claustrophobic feeling patients can have during and MRI exam. The short bore of the MRI gives it a much more open feeling. Additionally, the Avanto is quieter than any other high field MRI system, reducing acoustical noise, making the comfort level much higher for patients.

"With this new technology, SJRHC can improve on the existing medical treatments that are already offered, including brain, spine, cardiac and spectroscopy (Molecular Imaging)," said Velasquez. "We’re constantly assessing new imaging technology, and when we looked at this system, we knew this would be an important advancement to patient care."