Services Overview

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI)

The MRI and CT Centre within the Radiology Department offers state-of-the-art diagnostic imaging services, adhering to the highest standards of precision and patient care. Our MRI suite is equipped with advanced Siemens MRI systems, including the Siemens VIDA 3T and Siemens SOLA 1.5T. These cutting-edge systems are designed to provide exceptional imaging quality and diagnostic capabilities while prioritizing patient comfort. We are committed to ensuring a seamless experience for every patient, employing the latest technology to facilitate accurate diagnoses and optimal outcomes.

Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is a non-invasive imaging technique that utilizes powerful magnetic fields and radio waves to generate detailed images of the body’s internal structures. This advanced technology is an invaluable asset in modern medicine, enabling the diagnosis and monitoring of a wide range of medical conditions with unparalleled clarity and accuracy.

Advantages of MRI

• High Resolution and Contrast: MRI provides highly detailed images of soft tissues, organs, and structures, making it an optimal tool for detecting abnormalities with exceptional clarity.
• No Ionizing Radiation: Unlike X-rays or CT scans, MRI does not employ ionizing radiation, rendering it a safer alternative, particularly for paediatric patients or individuals requiring multiple scans over time.

Unlock the Full Potential of MRI

MRI transcends traditional structural imaging by delivering critical functional information. Discover how advanced MRI techniques can provide invaluable functional insights:

• Cardiac MRI: Offers detailed images of the heart and blood vessels, enabling comprehensive assessments of function, structure, pathology, and ischemia.
• Diffusion and Perfusion Imaging: Facilitates the identification of ischemia, tumors, and other abnormalities by tracking the movement of water molecules.
• MR Spectroscopy: Analyzes the chemical composition of tissues, providing essential insights for tumor characterization.

Our MRI Systems: Siemens VIDA and SOLA

1. Siemens VIDA 3T:
   – A state-of-the-art 3T MRI system that offers remarkable imaging capabilities and speed.
   – Delivers high-resolution images of intricate anatomical structures, including breasts, prostate, and even small digits, such as fingers.

2. Siemens SOLA 1.5T:
      – A versatile 1.5T MRI system designed with a focus on patient-centered care.
   – Incorporates advanced technology that enhances workflow efficiency and produces exceptional image quality, even in complex cases.

Both systems are equipped with Deep Resolve, Siemens’ AI-driven image reconstruction technology. Deep Resolve significantly enhances image quality by reducing noise and highlighting fine details, resulting in sharper and more accurate images:

• Enhanced Image Quality: Sharpens intricate anatomical details while minimizing image noise, enabling more precise diagnoses.
• Faster Imaging: Accelerates image acquisition, reducing scan times and enhancing patient comfort, while optimizing workflow efficiency.
• Improved Diagnostic Confidence: Provides clinicians with clearer, more precise images, especially in challenging cases, facilitating better-informed treatment decisions.

MRI Exam Procedure

During an MRI exam, the patient lies on a table that slides into a large, tunnel-shaped scanner. Some examinations may require an intravenous injection of contrast medium for better depiction of diseases. The procedure is painless and typically lasts between 15 to 90 minutes, depending on the specific type of scan being performed.

To minimize the constant drumming noise produced by the MRI machine, patients are provided with earplugs. Throughout the examination, patients can communicate with our staff anytime via intercoms for any questions or concerns. After the exam, patients are free to eat and drink as usual.

Our MRI systems are equipped to perform a wide range of imaging studies that assist in diagnosing various conditions across multiple body parts, including:

• Brain and Spine: MRI is utilized to identify tumors, strokes, multiple sclerosis, and other neurological conditions. Spinal imaging aids in diagnosing disc herniations, spinal cord injuries, and degenerative diseases.
• Musculoskeletal System: MRI provides detailed images of joints, bones, and soft tissues, facilitating the diagnosis of ligament tears, cartilage injuries, and musculoskeletal tumors.
• Abdomen and Pelvis: Abdominal MRI is essential for evaluating the liver, kidneys, pancreas, and other organs, helping to detect tumors, cysts, and infections. Pelvic MRI is used for assessing gynecological conditions, prostate imaging, and staging cancers.
• Cardiac Imaging: Cardiac MRI deliver comprehensive insights into the structure and function of the heart. This cutting-edge technology is essential for diagnosing such as cardiomyopathies, ischemic heart disease, and congenital heart defects. With detailed visualization of anatomical features and an assessment of myocardial health, Cardiac MRI guides clinical decision-making and treatment plans.
• Breast Imaging: MRI is a valuable tool for detecting breast cancer, particularly for high-risk patients or when mammography results are inconclusive. With its ability of high-resolution breast images, MRI helps identify small, early-stage tumors and effectively assesses the extent of the tumor and whether it has spread to surrounding tissues. This crucial information guides subsequent and treatment plans.
• Prostate Imaging: Multiparametric prostate MRI, utilizing the PI-RADS (Prostate Imaging–Reporting and Data System), offers a structured reporting approach for the evaluation of suspected prostate cancer. This advanced method integrates multiple imaging techniques – including T2-weighted imaging, and dynamic contrast-enhanced imaging, to provide a more accurate assessment of prostate lesions. By identifying cancer and its potential aggressiveness, this comprehensive approach empowers physicians to develop more effective diagnostic and treatment plans.

Vascular Studies

MR Angiography (MRA) provides detailed imaging of blood vessels, playing a crucial role in diagnosing condition such as aneurysms, vascular malformations, and blockages. This non-invasive technique allows for the assessment of vascular anatomy and blood flow, enabling physicians to develop appropriate treatment plans and monitor disease progression.

Precautions for MRI

MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) is a safe and effective imaging modality; however, certain precautions and contraindications must be considered due to the strong magnetic field involved in the procedure. Here are key points to keep in mind:

1. Contraindications: Cardiac Implant Devices: Patients with pacemakers, defibrillators, or other cardiac implant devices may be contraindicated for MRI examinations. It is crucial to consult your doctor and inform the MRI staff about any such devices before undergoing the exam.
2. Metal Foreign Bodies: Individuals with metal foreign bodies (e.g., shrapnel, surgical clips) or other metallic implants (e.g., joint replacements, stents) should also inform the staff, as these can pose risks during the MRI scan
3. Patient Comfort: Restlessness and Claustrophobia: Patients who are restless, experience claustrophobia, or are children may require sedation prior to the examination to ensure they remain still and comfortable during the scan. Discuss any concerns with your doctor and the MRI staff beforehand
4. Pregnancy Considerations: Early Stages of Pregnancy: MRI should generally be avoided in the early stages of pregnancy unless absolutely necessary. If there is any possibility of pregnancy, please inform your doctor and the MRI staff prior to the examination

For enquiries and appointments, please contact us at: (By appointment only)

Radiology – Magnetic Resonance Imaging

* Emergency services are provided after office-hour.

For referral cases, please call our centre for more information.

Lithotripsy

The Stone Centre is equipped with an advance multi-function Extra-Corporeal Shock Wave Lithotripter (Dornier MFL 5000) which is very effective with a proven high success rate for the treatment of most kidney and ureteric stones, as well as some selected gall bladder stones on an ambulatory basis.

Major Features

• Non-invasive method
• Water-bath free treatment
• Anaesthesia free treatment
• Outpatient / day patient treatment

 Scope of Services

• Extra-Corporeal Shock Wave Lithotripsy (ESWL)
• Placement of ureteric stents
• Insertion of retrograde ureteric catheters
• Cystoscopy

For enquiries and appointments, please contact us at: (By appointment only)
Radiology – Lithotripsy

* Emergency services are provided after office-hour.

* For referral cases, please call our Lithotripter for more information.

Computed Tomography (CT)

Computed Tomography (CT) is an advanced medical imaging technology that utilizes X-rays and computer processing to create cross-sectional images of the body’s internal structures. Our State-of-the-art scanning equipment can capture essential diagnostic information in the shortest possible examination time, and further format the scanning data into three-dimensional images. This capability aids physicians in observing the condition of internal organs, tissues, and fine blood vessels, providing rapid and reliable diagnostic results.

Latest Facilities

Dual Source Photon Counting CT Scanner – Siemens NAEOTOM Alpha
This innovative technology transcends traditional CT scanning by offering enhanced sensitivity and ultra-high-resolution imaging. With rapid scanning times, it can reduce radiation exposure and contrast agent usage by up to 70% and 30%, respectively. The Dual Source Photon Counting CT Scanner provides patients with safer, more precise, and comprehensive examinations, enabling the early detection of conditions such as cancer and coronary artery disease.

Clinical Diagnostic Advantages

The Dual Source Photon Counting CT Scanner can capture images with slice thickness as low as 0.2 millimeters, revealing intricate bodily tissues and structures, significantly enhancing assessment accuracy.

• Cardiology: Ultra-high-definition coronary artery images clearly depict vascular narrowing, even in cases of severe calcification or stenting.
• Oncology: Achieves precise tumor assessment through low-dose spectral imaging.
• Neuroscience: A single scan can display detailed structures of the cranial and cervical blood vessels.
• Thoracic and Cardiovascular Surgery: High-resolution lung images facilitate early cancer identification.

Enhancing Patient Comfort and Experience

• Rapid Scanning Time: The scanning rotation can be completed in as little as 0.25 seconds, allowing the entire scanning process to finish within seconds, eliminating the need for patients to hold their breath or use sedatives.
• Wide Aperture Design: The enlarged 82-centimeter aperture not only enhances patient comfort but also alleviates anxiety for those with claustrophobia.
• Examination Table Design: With a height as low as 38 centimeters, the examination table facilitates easy access for patients, ensuring greater safety.

Applications 

• General scans including head, chest, abdomen, spine, and extremities
• Low-dose chest scans
• Angiography (coronary, head and neck, and lower extremities)
• Perfusion scans (Brain, Cardiac, etc.)
• Dual-energy scans
• Virtual colonoscopy
• CT-guided interventional procedures

Other Advanced CT Scanners 

Dual Source 384-Slice CT Scanner – Siemens SOMATOM Force

For enquiries and appointments, please contact us at: (By appointment only)

Radiology – Computed Tomography Centre

Emergency Services Available Outside Office Hours

Our department provides emergency services for urgent cases outside of regular office hours.

* For inquiries regarding referral cases, please contact the Radiology Department of our hospital for further details.