Last week, the University Hospital of Kraków has received an open MRI scanner. Due to its extraordinary weight of about 16 tons, it was transported into the building using a crane and a complex air-cushion system.
‘0.4 T field strength, cutting edge programming and a full set of receiver coils makes this a unique open MRI scanner in Europe’, said Prof. Tadeusz Popiela, head of the Department of Diagnostic Imaging of the University Hospital of Kraków. ‘The device offers a wide scanning range and RADAR-based programming that compensates for patients’ movements, which is particularly important when it comes to people suffering from serious injuries, obesity and claustrophobia. Its properties will also allow it to be used by patients with metal implants. A single prosthesis will no longer be a deterrent’, he added.
Additionally, a unique design choice makes the device the only open panoramic MRI scanner in the world. Aside from being very easy to use for staff due to motorised, adjustable table and user-friendly console, it also provides a whole new level of comfort to the patients. The machine is considerably more silent than standard MRI scanners, and simultaneous measurement of heart activity, pulse and breathing helps instil a sense of security.
The cost of the device is approximately 6 million zlotys. It was funded within the framework of a COVID-19 relief fund provided by the Małopolska Voivodeship Regional Operation Programme 2014-2020.
