Madrid, May 13 2019:- MD Anderson Cancer Center Madrid has acquired 3-Tesla magnetic resonance equipment, which is substantially more powerful than the high-field MR equipment (1.5 Tesla) already available at the center and which provides much higher-resolution images. The new equipment marks the beginning of advanced imaging techniques, like the functional techniques, as they do not just ‘photograph’ the anatomy of the patient, but also record neural activity, and therefore, facilitate the mapping of vital brain functions, like speech or movement,
Thus, the doctor does not just see an image of the lesion, but can also see where the vital brain functions are located. “To have a map of the brain showing the location of these functions during a surgical intervention is a great improvement in the approach, as it allows the specialist to preserve the brain functions and avoid complications”, says Dr. Inmaculada Rodriguez, from the Radiodiagnostics Service, who also points out that the help of the functions map is not only applicable during the surgical intervention, but also in the diagnosis and subsequent monitoring of the patient.
So, in terms of diagnosis, “carrying out functional perfusion, spectroscopy and magnetic resonance diffusion techniques allows us to analyze tumor composition and better characterize lesions”. In terms of monitoring patients, 3-Tesla MR makes it possible to accurately follow the evolution of the lesion and detect any anomalies.
In addition to greater power and much better resolution, 3-Tesla MR has also reduced the noise level and duration of the procedure. “Previously, it took about 30 minutes to do an MRI of the neck, and now it takes substantially less time – a factor that can be added to the reduction in noise”, explains Dr. Rodriguez, who points out that it all means the experience is more pleasant for the patient.
Although advances are more evident in neurology, given that the system allows brain functions to be preserved, 3-Tesla MR can be used anywhere on the body and, indeed, the new equipment has achieved “ major improvements in the diagnosis and pre-surgical planning for prostate, gynecologic and colorectal tumors, among others. The high definition obtained in images of all muscle and bone diseases, both cancer and sports related, is also noteworthy.