I'm looking for a 3T strength MRI imager in northeast Ohio

[twopack]

I skipped over to this brand new forum from the MS community to see if I could get some help in finding a 3T MRI available for outpatient imaging.  I've tried to search online but I'm not having much luck on my own.  

I've got scripts in hand for new MRIs of my brain and thoracic spine that the MS specialist wants done in October.  The hospital I usually go to uses a 1.5T machine and I would really prefer to upgrade my images if at all possible, expecially since doc be looking at the spine closer this time.

I'm trying to work on this now since once I find a machine I may have to fight with insurance about decent coverage while having this service done by a less-preferred provider.  I'm not sure how they can do that when they OK the test but don't provide that exact service themselves.  More research indicated I guess.

Thanks for any help out there.
Mary

[twopack]

Thanks katya, I'm in the process of making arrangements to go to OSU.  I found out that Cleveland Clinic has a 3T but not for it's MS clinic patients to use.  Kind of strange.  OSU has three of them and they have been very willing to work with me to set this up.

CG, I appreciate your effort too.  I already knew the 3T would be better but didn't understand most of what you were talking about with the techno stuff.

[katya13]

http://www.sciencedaily.com/releases/2007/05/070504121140.htm

I know it is not right in your area, but if you're willing to take a drive south to Columbus, Ohio State is leading the way in this technology. They are even experimenting with 7 teslas specifically for MS patients, I've seen some of their work presented at last year's annual RSNA meeting...simply amazing!

Best of Luck!

[caregiver222]

I've given this some thought.

You should contact Siemans Corporation which sells and services the Magneton family of 3T MRI's. These use a process called Tim, standing for "total Imaging Matrix". Their magnetronic sustem has ipat compatable coils with good homogenity on 40mm FoV, including true z direction.

They should be able to direct you to the nearest installation.

[caregiver222]

The 3T images are far better. There are several reasons, including the fact that the images are distorted by movent and the time in the 3T machine is much shorter.

I would suggest you contact your hospital MRI technician and ask this question.

There are many 3T machines available in the Northeast if you care to travel.