Radiology Forums

JW2000 · Joined: 29 Dec 2005 Posts: 1

Can anyone tell me if there is a difference between MRI machines? I need an MRI for a shoulder injury (possible rotor-cuff tare) and was advised by a friend (who happened to have the same problem) not to use the local clinic (located in Guam!) because his doctor at the Cleveland clinic said the MRI provided to him (from the Guam MRI clinic) was unusable... Presumably because the machine was sub-standard?
I know nothing about MRI machines. Would anyone like to comment? I'm not asking for specific information regarding a particular clinic but weather or not there are differences in quality... And if it's worth shopping for a better clinic (MRI machine)?
Thanks in advance!

bonseye · Guest

You want to look for a high field strength MRI 1.5 Tesla or 3 Tesla if you have one in the area. "open" mri machines don't have the detail that a stronger magnet gets. There are trade off's with everything. The stronger the magnet--the better the pictures. If you are at all claustrophobic, talk to your doctor about a mild sedative. Good Luck!

Shivram · Guest

I am a radiologist reporting MRI myself. Its important that you get your scan done in a high strength magnet (1.5 Tesla or more), But another important thing that you should ascertain (if possible) is the competence of the person reporting the scan. Because upper limb joints are not the most frequently imaged parts of the body and it's not unusual to see not so skilled reports. So look into the imaging profile of the clinic, and the radiologist... see how many joints they report per month. If it is reasonable (say more than 10 upper limb cases) then there's no harm in going ahead!
Ciao!

drmri · Joined: 03 Mar 2006 Posts: 4

Look for an ACR accredited Facility in your area. You can look on the ACR website for a facility. Not all High field system have been upgraded. Even Open system can perform the exams with Diagnostic Results. Also make sure Board Certified Radiologist is reading your exam.