Flushing Hospital has new MRI system

A new MRI system at Flushing Hospital will improve the testing process for patients, lessening issues of claustrophobia and cutting down on the time it takes.
The Siemens Magnetom Espree MRI at Flushing Hospital has a bore magnet only four feet in length, which means patients can go through the testing with their heads outside of the machine. This can make the process easier for patients who are claustrophobic.
In addition, a process that used to take anywhere from 30 minutes to 45 minutes has been cut down to between 15 and 30 minutes. The exact length depends on the images being taken with the MRI.
“Our new MRI system will definitely ease anxiety often faced by patients,” said Dr. Sabiha Raoof, the chairperson of Flushing Hospital’s Radiology Department. “Once you minimize apprehension, the entire procedure becomes much more comfortable. It’s a huge benefit to our patients and the community we serve.”
The testing machine can almost accommodate more weight that other MRIs can.
“In addition to reducing anxiety, the design of the bore has an increased weight limit,” said Radiology Department Administrator Russell Smith. “The weight limit of our MRI is 500 pounds, compared to older conventional MRI systems with weight capacities of 350 to 400 pounds.”
Flushing Hospital is located at 4500 Parsons Boulevard. To find out more about its MRI or to make an appointment, call 718-321-6137.