April 13 2012

Methodist Willowbrook Hospital Acquires Open-Bore MRI Scanner

(Houston, TX) — Methodist Willowbrook Hospital has acquired a Siemens MAGNETOM® Espree scanner to offer patients a more comfortable and efficient MRI experience.

The design of the MAGNETOM Espree offers distinct advantages over a traditional MRI scanner, particularly in terms of patient comfort. "It´s an open-bore design," explains Angie McDonald, Methodist Willowbrook´s Director of Imaging, "which many patients find more comfortable. The new scanner provides 12 inches of headroom, so it reduces the ´claustrophobic´ feeling that some patients experience. Plus, most scans can be done with the patient's head outside the machine."

The new scanner also offers an option for patients whose weight may prevent them from having comfortable scans in a traditional MRI device. "It can accommodate up to 400 pounds," says Ms. McDonald. "We recommend this magnet for patients 250 pounds and over, simply for the comfort factor. There is no reason for discomfort when this unit is available. Patients will find it a much more comfortable EXPERIENCE."

Located in a temporary building on the Centerfield Campus adjacent to Methodist Willowbrook Hospital, the new scanner also allows patients easy access for a quicker visit. "Our patients can park right in front," notes Ms. McDonald. "They don't have to go through the hospital, so they're in and out much faster."

The MAGNETOM Espree scanner can be requested Monday through Friday between 8 am and 4 pm. To schedule a scan or for more information, contact Methodist Willowbrook Imaging & Diagnostic Services at (281) 737-1900.

For more information on the comprehensive services available on the Methodist Willowbrook campus, please visit www.methodistwillowbrook.com. For a physician referral, call (281) 737-2500.

A not-for-profit hospital, Methodist Willowbrook is part of The Methodist Hospital System. It has expanded its campus in Northwest Houston to serve the area in a more comprehensive way. Methodist Willowbrook Hospital has received its chest pain and stroke accreditations, performs complex surgeries such as neurosurgery and open heart, and focuses on women and children in its new Women´s & Children´s Pavilion.

For more information on the comprehensive services available on the Methodist Willowbrook campus, please visit www.methodistwillowbrook.com. For a physician referral, call (282) 737-2500.