Supra-Diagnostics Laboratory, a leading diagnostic centre, has invested Rs 3 crore to introduce the Vertical MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) technology for the first time in the country. The MRI sourced from Esaote, Italy is opens up a new era in the diagnosis and management of pain.
The MRI technology will now show the concealed pathologies while diagnosing various posture-dependent pains. The machine will enable targeted problem detection, stated Dr Kodlady Surendra Shetty, consultant Endoscopic Spine Surgeon, and head Supra-diagnostics.
Supra Diagnostics will now use the vertical MRI to scan foot, ankle, knee, hip, spine, shoulder, elbow, and hand and wrist. The magnet can be tilted from a horizontal to vertical position, which enables the imaging of the patient in a weight bearing position.
The equipment features open permanent magnet with hydraulic tilting mechanism from zero degree to 90 degree. It has an ergonomic patient table, light patented RF shielding, weight-bearing examinations giving extra diagnostic capability, multi planar scout, real time imaging tool for patient positioning.
The biggest advantage of the vertical MRI over the conventional MRI is that it provides better results as patient's point of pain is recorded. The correlation between clinical finding and MRI pictures is more reliable and allows more 'targeted' treatment. This contributes to improved post operative outcome, said Dr Shetty.
The equipment is an innovative system for all musculoskeletal applications. This covers from a simple knee to weight bearing spine. With its unique tilting design, the patient can be moved in a true weight-bearing position, allowing to visualize the actual condition of pathologies.
Open MRI system provides ease particularly for people who are claustrophobic. It is also comfortable for overweight/obese patients. It precisely depicts the anatomical changes occurring during day to day activities those of which more often than not are overlooked in supine MRIs.
It also unmasks the instability factor conscientious for the pain which is missed in conventional MRI. In addition, it facilitates proper planning of surgeries mainly weight bearing joints. It gives the diagnosis for simple discectomy and which case is subject to fusion or disc replacement.
Supra Diagnostics will also attend to referrals from other hospitals. Going by the increasing number of orthopaedic problems which not only include arthritic conditions but also fractures and tumours, the vertical MRI will now be able to provide faster diagnosis, said Dr Shetty.