The MRI machine at SRC has received considerable attention within the medical community and has become the scanner of choice for many patients and physicians in the Salem area. 3T MRI is a sophisticated technology that, before coming to SRC, was previously only available at larger academic medical centers and research facilities, such as OHSU.
Tesla (T) is the unit of measurement quantifying the strength of a magnetic field. With greater magnetic strength comes the ability to detect and visualize smaller structures within the body. Greater magnetic strength also allows scan sequences to be completed in less time.
The 3T MRI at SRC has a magnetic field strength that is twice the strength of any other local MRI scanner. The new scanner also features an open design that is 17% larger than any other local scanner for greater patient comfort and accommodation of patients weighing up to 500 pounds.
Patients entering the 3T scanning suite will find the experience to be very different. The skylight scanning suite has been specifically designed to maximize patient comfort. Patients are also encouraged to bring to their appointment their iPod or MP3 player, so they can relax and enjoy their personal playlist.
