Guernsey updates MRI to provide preventive care for islanders

Guernsey’s largest and most up-to-date whole body scanner has been officially opened at the First Contact Health clinic in St Peter Port. His Excellency, the Lieutenant-Governor of Guernsey, Lieutenant General Richard Cripwell cut the ribbon on January 5.

“Because of waiting lists it can take considerable time for islanders with painful conditions to get scans and reports. Our new MRI scanner will make a significant contribution to the health of islanders,” explained chair of First Contact Health Peter Watson.

“Not only will it be available for examining patients’ muscle and bone problems but will be a hugely valuable tool in preventative medicine.”

The new Philips Ingenia Ambition system is more comfortable and quicker than other, older machines in Guernsey. It contains patented ComforTone technology, which reduces noise from the machine by 80 per cent. Compressed Sense increases the speed of scans by 50 per cent and it is a sealed magnet, making it safer and more efficient than many machines. The scanner’s cooling system contains liquid helium and needs just seven litres, whereas an older machine requires 1,500-1,600 litres.

Picture: Medical director and orthopaedic specialist Dr Ranjan Vhadra, Lieutenant General Richard Cripwell and First Contact Health chair Peter Watson.

See the full report on page 13 of the February 2023 issue of RAD Magazine.