Department of Public Affairs -- 8900 Van Wyck Expressway Jamaica, New York 11418
For Immediate Release
Name: Michael Hinck
Telephone: 718-206-8973
Email: mhinck@jhmc.org
Flushing Hospital Offers Alternative to MRI Claustrophobia
Oct 02,2008
Contact Information:
<br>Natifia Gaines
<br>(718) 206-6020
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<br>October 2, 2008 (Flushing, NY)-- MRI testing has provided patients with several benefits over the years—it’s a non-invasive procedure and provides accurate images of most parts of the body, as well as blood vessels. While very beneficial, it has created a problem of its own, the feeling of claustrophobia. MRI testing requires patients to lie down perfectly still in a long, enclosed tunnel for approximately 30-45 minutes, sometimes an hour. A combination of the two can cause anxiety for any patient, including those who aren’t claustrophobic.
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<br>Flushing Hospital’s new Siemens Magnetom Espree MRI open bore system features a patient-friendly design and offers patients an alternative to MRI claustrophobia. The system has a short bore magnet. At approximately four feet long, exams can now be completed with the patient’s head outside of the bore. Also, tests can be taken in as little as 15 to 30 minutes, depending on the images needed. This provides comfort to even the most claustrophobic patient.
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<br>“Our new MRI system will definitely ease anxiety often faced by patients," said Dr. Sabiha Raoof, Chairperson of the 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."
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<br>“In addition to reducing anxiety, the design of the bore has an increased weight limit. The weight limit of our MRI is 500 pounds, compared to older conventional MRI systems with weight capacities of 350-400 pounds," added Russell Smith, Administrator of the Radiology Department.
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<br>A MRI is a non-invasive test that helps physicians diagnose and treat a variety of medical conditions. The test uses a magnetic field, radio waves, and a computer to produce detailed pictures of all internal body structures. The test evaluates organs of the chest, abdomen, and pelvis; pelvic organs, including male and female reproductive organs, pelvic and hip bones, as well as blood vessels.
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<br>For more information of Flushing Hospital’s MRI system or to schedule an appointment for a MRI test, call 718-321-6137.
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<br><b>Flushing Hospital Medical Center</b> serves a population greater than 1.9 million in Queens. This 293-bed facility is an accredited community teaching hospital that has over 40 general and specialty clinics. The Department of Radiology offers a wide variety of state-of-the-art diagnostic and specialty services, including ultrasound, mammography, sonography, nuclear medicine, diagnostic x-ray, interventional radiology, and CT Scans. All services are performed by Board Certified Radiologists and highly trained and experienced technologists. Flushing Hospital Medical Center’s mission is to provide superior service to patients and the community in a caring environment. For additional information on Flushing Hospital, contact the Department of Public Affairs at 718-206-6020.
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