The medical field is continuously innovating as it continues to bring solutions and services to their patients. Innovation means increasing the efficiency of healthcare systems. It can help examine patients faster and improve the collection of images.
Since the advances in imaging technology are exponential, upgrades are necessary. When it comes to upgrading your MRI machine, its lifespan is on the average is around 11 years. While many manufacturers release updates to extend the life of the machine, the results can often lead to higher net costs than the new MRI machine for sale.
Here are the critical considerations you need to know when you are buying a new MRI machine.
Technical features
First and foremost, the strength of the primary magnetic field can affect the quality and number of functions of the scanner. An example of this is the neurological imaging techniques like diffusion MRI are performed in a 1.5 T MRI machine and above. In general, the higher the strength, the better are the images it can produce.
The signal-to-noise (SNR) is also an important parameter in defining the image produced by MRI. If there is a low SNR, the contrast between the different issues can be obscured by the background noise. Higher SNR can provide more options.
Another critical factor for good quality images is the field uniformity and stability. An excellent magnetic field homogeneity over a large volume means that the image quality can be maintained even on the peripheral areas of the body.
Safety and ease of use
The patient’s comfort is essential, the very reason why there is an open MRI available for big patients and anybody who has symptoms or suffering from claustrophobia. Some large RF coils are also built-in the patient’s coach while others allow all the coils to be plugged in at once to speed up the process for both the patient and the staff.
All MRI machines have safety profile like the active shielding curbs that extend to the fringes of the magnetic field around the scanner. Noise levels are controlled by built-in noise control technology to reduce the decibels in most scans.
Dimension is also an essential consideration because an MRI machine can take up lots of space and you one that allows for the extent of the magnetic build. Manufacturers often specify the minimum space required. If space is constrained, there are large amounts of magnetic field shielding needed to prevent the fringe field from spreading in the public areas.
Costs
Capital outlay for a new MRI machine is large, and it depends on the type of the machine. The most expensive is the 3T model. Included in the package are on-site training, accessories, and installation. Accessories may consist of an independent workstation. This is where you view images and perform image processing far from the main console. Other accessories may include the contrast injectors, cardiac, respiratory and oxygen monitors, additional beds and detachable trolleys.
Maintenance
Expensive machines are hard to maintain and run. The liquid helium in the magnet can boil off which should be replenished every few years. Many manufacturers offer 6-month to one-year service.
Customer support
When the manufacturer installs the MRI machine, it includes training on how to run the machine. It depends on the buyer on how much training is needed and for whom and whether this training suits your needs.
You can also avail of a service contract to make sure that there are enough engineers to fix any potential problems and how fast the manufacturer can rectify them. There are sophisticated machines that offer remote diagnostics where the system is automatically linked to the manufacturer. This is an additional incentive because it can speed up the detection and resolution of the problem.
If you are looking to differentiate yourself in the market and bring in new MRI machine to your patients, you need to know the several factors to consider when buying a new one to get the best value and satisfy your imaging needs.