Radiology
The 3-T MRI Intra-Operative Scanner
Epilepsy diagnosis and a possible surgical ‘cure’ for this debilitating condition – the 3-Tesla magnet has already revealed tiny lesions on the brain of epilepsy patients not previously visible on a regular MRI scan. As well as identifying the lesion, the intra-operative facility will allow the neurosurgeon to navigate directly and microscopically to the lesion, remove it, and re-scan to ensure it has been fully removed.
Research opportunities: The exceptionally high resolution of the 3-Tesla magnet is pushing new boundaries in research. Already Liverpool Women’s Hospital is conducting research on neonates and foetal imaging (using the 1.5T scanner) where a range of pre-birth abnormalities are diagnosed and referred for surgery on delivery. Academic institutions are exploring opportunities, such as researching mobility in cerebral palsy patients
Cardiac patients and those with shunts or bowel problems will benefit enormously, previously they may have had to be diagnosed through CT or Fluoroscopy which carry high radiation burdens or are invasive
Rheumatology patients require repeated imaging to monitor their condition, the increased capacity will allow more patients to be scanned, more often, thereby enhancing their treatment programme. Already Alder Hey is receiving referrals from all over the country to its acclaimed rheumatology service.
Patient Choice is driving activity at Alder Hey where decisions are made by parents on the basis of speed of access and convenience. This additional facility is expected to allow Radiology to reduce its MRI waiting times from 6 weeks to 2 weeks – one of the lowest in the country
Post Mortem imaging is occasionally clinically requested but increasingly this service is being requested by families who object to conventional post mortems on cultural grounds.
At a Glance – the Numbers:
- 75 additional patients a year will benefit from epilepsy scanning
- At least one patient a week with a brain tumour will benefit from the new 3T intra-operative scanner
- 380 patients a year will benefit from having an MRI scan with no radiation dose instead of a CAT scan
- 275 patients will benefit from the waiting list for MRI scans being reduced down from 6 to 2 weeks
- 125 additional cardiac patients can be scanned
