Study day enlightens MRI radiographers

Last updated Sep 21, 2023

St Joseph’s Hospital in Newport held its inaugural MRI study day for radiographers in June, offering delegates the chance to explore a variety of topics in MRI. With sponsorship from Bayer, Probo Medical and MRI Safety Matters the event was free to attend.

Leading the presentations was St Joseph’s executive CMR radiographer Benny Lawton with a talk on ‘Applications of cardiac MRI’, a taster from his cardiac MRI course that takes place twice a year at St Joseph’s. The audience saw presentations on MRI safety from founder of MRI Safety Matters Barbara Nugent. They were updated on the latest in safety practice, with a sample of what is to come in the September Safety Update and Innovations Day. There were talks from Aneurin Bevan University Health Board consultant radiologist Dr Khulood Al-Rawi on breast and gynaecological imaging, with tips on positioning and examples of pathologies. Consultant orthopaedic and spinal surgeon Mr Ashish Khurana discussed ‘Cauda equina syndrome (CES) – the radiographer’s perspective’, a hot topic with the push for 24/7 MRI coverage for CES at acute hospital sites. Cardiff and Vale University Health Board consultant radiologist Dr Kathleen Lyons presented on MRI of sports injuries, outlining the need for detail and quality when scanning high profile athletes. The day was concluded with a presentation from Anita Gianella from Bayer on the applications of Gadovist and Primovist, which explained the benefits of their contrast for various studies, one example being the ability to reduce dosage of Gadovist for CNS scans.

Barbara Nugent, founder of MRI Safety Matters, presented on MRI safety.

Feedback was positive, with one delegate saying: “The day was enjoyable and informative, and I would definitely attend a course again at St Joseph’s Hospital.”

Specialist radiographer and event organiser Laura Taylor said: “St Joseph’s is an independent hospital that has seen a lot of investment in recent years. We have the latest equipment and collaborate with leading consultants in their fields. As a result, CPD is a priority for radiography staff at St Joseph’s, to ensure we produce imaging of the highest standard.

“Thanks to our sponsors we were able to host this free study day to share our learning and build networks with MRI radiographers across other sites, both NHS and private.”

Lead picture: Study day participants at St Joseph’s Hospital.

Published on page 5 of the August 2023 issue of RAD Magazine.