In-office, Non-immersive MRI Technology Introduced in Hudson
Orthopedic patients in Albany Med Health System’s southern region are now able to have MRI scans taken without the need to leave their provider’s office. Newly installed Esaote O-scan technology at Columbia Memorial Health’s Bone and Joint Center in Hudson also means isolated scans can be taken of arms, wrists, hands, legs, ankles, or feet so certain patients don’t have to undergo a fully immersed MRI.
“The nature of a traditional MRI can be problematic for patients who are claustrophobic” said Columbia Memorial Health chief medical officer Rakel Astorga, MD. “The O-scan design eliminates the need for full immersion to scan limbs, and the in-office location allows us to quickly assess a situation and develop a plan for treatment.”
With other imaging capabilities including metal artifact reduction, which limits how metal in the body negatively impacts the quality of image; and cartilage imaging, which increases the breadth of what types of tissue can be scanned, the O-scan imaging device is the first of its kind in the Capital Region. It is located in a newly renovated suite in the Bone and Joint Center.
The nearest O-scan device prior to the installation in Hudson was in Manhattan. Bringing this technology to Hudson allows patients to get the services they need closer to home than ever before, decreasing the need for additional outreach and follow-up appointments.
One of two Bone and Joint Center locations, the Hudson office was remodeled, including the purchase of the O-scan MRI machine, thanks to fundraising efforts from the Columbia Memorial Health Foundation.
“This new technology will provide an enhanced experience for our patients while improving our imaging capabilities and operating efficiency. We’re grateful to the CMH Foundation and the people of our community for supporting this effort and assisting us in ensuring quality patient care.” said Dorothy Urschel, president and CEO of Columbia Memorial Health.
The O-scan MRI machine increases the community’s access to the high-quality care that they deserve. Efforts to not only strengthen the quality of care available, but bring it closer to those that need it, highlight the Albany Med Health System’s commitment to the people of the Mid-Hudson Valley and beyond.
Columbia Memorial Health’s two Bone and Joint Centers, the other located in Catskill, sit as part of the System’s region-wide network of 13 orthopedic care offices. The System offers an array of services from consultations to same-day, minimally invasive procedures, offering members of the community enhanced and expedited care and the ability to rehab in more comfortable environments.