GE launches new specialty musculoskeletal MR scanner

GEMar 28 2011

GE today announced the launch of the Optima MR430s, a new specialty scanner with breakthrough technology that delivers precise imaging with exceptional comfort and the 1.5T image quality radiologists require. The Optima MR430s is an extreme leap forward in MR imaging because only the targeted anatomy - whether it's an arm or a leg - goes inside the system. It is the latest in a series of innovative health technologies that provide better health to more people through GE's healthymagination initiative.

"GE's Optima MR430s extremity scanner stands out because it ensures high quality images and a more refined, comfortable MR experience for those who have suffered injuries to an arm, leg or even a wrist or ankle," said Dr. William B. Morrison, Director of Musculoskeletal Radiology at Thomas Jefferson University in Philadelphia. "This scanning technology helps eliminate anxiety and discomfort often associated with full-body MR technology."

Surprising in More Ways Than One: Optima MR430s

The Optima MR430s is a musculoskeletal MR system that delivers precise imaging of the arm, including elbow, wrist and hand, or the leg, including knee, ankle and foot, allowing the patient to recline on a comfortable padded and adjustable chair with only the targeted anatomy positioned in the system. The innovative design is patient-friendly and may provide greater peace of mind, especially for those who have trouble laying still or feel uncomfortable with a traditional MR system. And, because a more comfortable patient is less prone to accidental movement during the exam, images are likely to be even more clear and consistent.

"Greater patient comfort with uncompromised image quality is at the heart of the design of this system," says Jim Davis, general manager for GE Healthcare's Magnetic Resonance Imaging business. "By making MR accessible to more patients and providing imaging that's both advanced and cost-effective, the Optima MR430s provides a remarkably improved experience for patients."

The Optima MR430s can help alleviate the demand on a hospital's full-body scanner. As an addition to a busy radiology department, the system can relieve patient backlogs to boost department efficiency, offering healthcare providers a smart investment at a low total cost of ownership. A small footprint allows for easy siting and lower installation costs, while the lightweight magnet fits through standard doors.

Renowned Golfer Jim Furyk Educates About Optimal Diagnosis and Performance

In addition, GE healthymagination today announced the launch of a partnership with renowned golfer and 2010 PGA TOUR player of the year Jim Furyk to educate people about injury prevention and the importance of optimal diagnosis using MR technology when injuries do happen. This is part of GE's recently announced partnership with the PGA TOUR to showcase healthymagination innovations - on the course, through various media activities, and for audiences watching at home.

Having struggled with a wrist injury throughout the course of his career, Furyk understands the need to secure a quick and accurate diagnosis to return to the field of play as soon as possible. In partnership with the GE healthymagination initiative, he is using his firsthand knowledge to educate serious athletes and weekend warriors about the importance of maintaining a healthy, active lifestyle to prevent injuries, as well as the importance of new, innovative technology, such as the Optima MR430s, that can help when injuries do happen.

"GE is delighted to have partnered with Jim Furyk on this important educational campaign," said Mike Barber, vice president of healthymagination. "The Optima MR430s offers patients greater comfort and excellent image quality, while Jim Furyk reminds people of the importance of preventing and caring for injuries. Today's announcements represent an important step forward in our healthymagination commitment to deliver better health to more people."