So, just what is an MRI scanner and what does it do? MRI is a painless, non-invasive diagnostic procedure that allows physicians to see detailed images of the internal structures of your body without using X-rays. Instead, a large magnet is used, along with radio waves and a computer. Whereas an ordinary x-ray produces very good pictures of the bones, an MRI scan can show details of the brain, spine, joints, muscles, nerves, cartilages and other internal organs.

MRI scans show more clearly than was ever before possible the difference between healthy and diseased tissue. It can lead to early detection and treatment of disease, and getting an MRI scan has no known side effects. The level of detail seen in an MRI scan is extraordinary.

It is ideal for evaluating and diagnosing:

• damage to the brain and spinal cord
• tumours of the brain, spine and pituitary gland
• infections in the brain, spine or joints
• strokes in their earliest stages
• torn ligaments in the wrist, knee and ankle
• abnormal structures of the heart and aorta, detecting tears or aneurysms
• shoulder injuries
• tendonitis
• multiple sclerosis (MS)
• masses in the soft tissues of the body
• bone tumors or cysts
• bulging or herniated discs in the spine

An MRI scanner is essential for neurosurgical, cardiac, cancer and orthopaedic patients as it can provide a much faster, more accurate diagnosis that can help save lives. An MRI can uncover tumours that might have been missed in the past. Often, surgery can be put off or better planned after knowing the results of an MRI scan.

GGH's MRI scanner:

• improves accessibility for residents of our area
• reduces reliance on invasive procedures
• makes earlier diagnoses possible resulting in early intervention surgery and treatment
• provides timely, modern health care to our patients
• reduces travel time, costs and risks for area residents
• helps the Hospital attract and keep doctors who specialize in diagnostic imaging (radiologists)
• contributes to the provincial objective of reducing MRI wait times

Currently, approximately 1,000 community members have an MRI scan at GGH each month. The cost of the machine and its installation was $3.1 million, completely funded with donor dollars through the MRI & More campaign.