For those who have claustrophobia or are uncomfortable having an MRI, there is good news—a high-field open MRI is now available for patients in Southcentral Kentucky. Western Kentucky Diagnostic Imaging, a department of The Medical Center, is the first in our area to add a Hitachi Oasis high-field open MRI system to its list of diagnostic offerings. The Oasis system is open on all sides, making it far more comfortable than a standard MRI. High-field means the scanner creates the highest quality, detailed images much faster than lower-field MRI devices.

MRIs are often the best type of images for many different kinds of injuries and disorders, including torn ligaments, women’s health issues and tumors. They provide detailed pictures of the body’s organs through the use of powerful magnetic fields and radio frequency pulses.

These images are critical for doctors to make accurate diagnoses. The specialists at WKDI work with each patient to determine what kind of MRI is appropriate for them based on the medical need and the patient’s own preferences.

The Oasis MRI at WKDI combines an open design with powerful technology to make patient exams as quick and comfortable as possible. As the only provider in the area with this new technology, Med Center Health offers patients and physicians in Southcentral Kentucky access to the most advanced diagnostic imaging techniques currently available in the healthcare industry. For more information, visit www.wkdi.com or call (270) 746-9500.