New state-of-the-art MRI scanner for Charing Cross
We have installed a new, state-of-the-art MRI scanner at Charing Cross Hospital, which will improve our diagnostic capability and ultimately help us reduce waiting times. Training is underway to support staff using the equipment, ahead of the scanner being introduced to day-to-day work over the coming weeks. Many thanks to everyone involved in delivering this major project.
The new scanner, first announced last year, is a replacement for the existing 16-year-old scanner, and the first of its type to be installed in the NHS. It represents a £3.4m investment as part of our wider estates improvement programme.
Benefits of the new scanner
The Philips MR 7700 3T is one of the most advanced MRI scanners available and will reduce down-time and allow us to see more patients. It offers a much wider range of scans and significantly improved images, assisted by the latest artificial intelligence (AI) technology, which will improve our diagnostic capability and give us the ability to tailor scans more closely to patients’ needs. It will also provide a better experience for patients, with a screen and audio within the scanner to guide them through the scan itself. For some patients, it could also mean shorter scan times.
There are also a number of features designed to help patients feel more relaxed and reduce potential feelings of stress and claustrophobia. For instance, patients will be able to select a video to view via a mirror which will allow them to see a screen outside the machine during the scan. They will also be able to access scan time information and breath hold instructions, visually and audibly.
We have also agreed to be a reference centre for the scanner in our region, which will mean we continue to receive the latest software updates and three months of training to support staff to use the equipment.
Next steps
We are committed to securing and maintaining state-of-the-art equipment and technology as set out in our response to the Government's consultation to develop a 10-year health plan for the NHS. This includes progressing plans to replace two more of our existing MRI scanners with the latest models.
Dr Amrish Mehta, consultant radiologist and director of women’s, cardiac, clinical support and sexual health services, said: "Our new state-of-the-art scanner is good news for staff and patients alike. The cutting-edge technology will significantly improve our diagnostic capability and quality, which I hope will also help us see more patients faster and ultimately reduce waiting times. It will also allow us to better tailor scans to patients' needs and, with some really innovative features, make the experience a bit easier.
“Thank you to the many staff who have supported this important project, including everyone who is helping us to maintain our MRI capacity while we make these improvements."
