Ellington

In less time than it takes to watch an episode of “Scrubs,” Chattanooga radiologist Dr. Jim Busch can produce a detailed magnetic resonance image, or MRI, of your brain. Or your knee. Or your spine.

Gone are the days of lying perfectly still for nearly an hour in a narrow coffin-like enclosure, says Busch. The new state of the art equipment, called “MAGNETOM Verio 3T OPEN MRI,” produces images in 20 minutes or less, instead of 45, while patients lie or sit in an opening measuring more than two feet in diameter.

The scanner’s magnetic field is the strongest in use by doctors anywhere, notes Busch, which means patients rarely need to be repositioned during the scan—hence, shorter wait times.

An integrated sound system even allows patients to listen to a CD or an iPod.

“If you boil it all down, it’s designed to be the best MRI device, period,” says Busch, who is among specialists operating the new equipment at Chattanooga Outpatient Center on McCallie Avenue. “And it takes into account patient comfort.”

Because the quality of images is four times higher than that of most, Busch says he is also able to make better, more confident diagnoses.

“It’s almost the difference between analog TV and high definition,” he adds.

Heavier patients enjoy increased access to an MRI, notes Busch. Its table can support up to 550 pounds, accommodating those who won’t fit into a traditional unit with smaller tunnels, he says.

Chattanooga Outpatient Center is the only facility in the region to use the Verio 3T, and only one of two in the entire southern United States, says Busch. “The only other one I’m aware of is in Florida.” The scanner is currently utilized by a group of health care providers including Tennessee Imaging and Vein Center. The superior speed, quality and freedom offered by the new scanner will not increase patient expense, adds Busch. “There’s no difference in reimbursement or qualifications for insurance.”