Australia's most advanced MRI scanner installed at WA hospital

Western Australians are benefiting from a new $3.5million state-of-the-art Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) scanner at Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital.

Shortly to be upgraded with cutting edge 'multi transmit' technology, the scanner - a Philips Achieva 3.0 Tesla MRI - the first of its kind in Australia, was officially launched today by Health Minister Kim Hames.

"This machine is faster and produces clearer images than conventional MRI scanners and enables doctors to see into parts of the body previously off limits," Dr Hames said.

"Its state-of-the-art technology will have tremendous benefits for the more than 4,000 patients who will use the scanner each year.  Doctors will have to order fewer tests and potentially be able to spot diseases and other complications earlier."

Dr Vincent Low, head of the hospital's Radiology Department, said the scanner would be particularly useful for patients with complex conditions.

"This machine is the next generation in MRI technology and we are delighted to be able to offer it to patients," Dr Low said.

"The scanner will be the first in the southern hemisphere with 'multi transmit' technology, significantly improving breast, abdominal and pelvic MRIs.  It is also a lot quicker and more comfortable for patients.

"With this machine, we can delve deep into organs like the heart or the brain.  For the very first time, we can get a close-up look at tiny blood vessels and nerves just millimetres thick."

Dr Amanda Ling, SCGH Executive Director, said the new machine would reduce waiting times for patients.

"This machine will complement our existing MRI scanner and will mean we can significantly increase the number of patients having MRI scans each year," Dr Ling said.

"We have experienced an increase in waiting times for patients with non-urgent conditions in recent months while waiting for the new machine.  However, we were keen to ensure that we bought the most advanced scanner available and one that would benefit patients for many years to come."