On Friday 25th October, rugby commentator, former Wales rugby international and patient Jonathan Davies OBE officially opened the £1.5 million state of the art MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) Scanner suite at Nuffield Health’s Cardiff Bay hospital. This replacement 1.5 teslar MRI scanner will complement the full range of diagnostic equipment onsite at Cardiff Bay.
The new SIGNA Artist MRI Scanner, from GE Healthcare, is welcome news for reducing fears when patients undergo an MRI diagnosis, as it has a large 70cm open ring (bore) through the middle that the patient passes through. Soft lighting and soothing fans also elevate patient comfort along with a memory foam surface and air technology. With a wider table and bore, this means it can accommodate patients up to 35 stone in weight. For the radiologists who interpret the scan data, there is much sharper clarity to give advanced images, whether it is the whole body, particular joints, prostate, liver, gynaecology or brain scans and also quicker scanning time.
Celebrity and Nuffield Health patient Jonathan Davies says, “Not only sportspeople but all those who want to stay active and generally those needing a diagnosis have the option to access this important diagnostic service at the Cardiff Bay hospital. Maintaining bone and muscle strength as we age is critical, not only to ensure we can continue to live life to the full physically, but also to maintain mental health. Personally I have benefited from a hip replacement at the Nuffield Health Vale Hospital which has enabled me to continue with charity cycling and keep active and healthy. ”
Rob Thomas Hospital Director of Nuffield Health Cardiff and Vale Hospitals said, “This is a step change in MRI imaging quality for Cardiff and South East Wales. It supports the plan for further development of Cardiff Bay as a rapid diagnostic and ambulatory care centre which of course also supports our hospital in the beautiful and tranquil Vale campus at Hensol. The new scanner has amazing features for accuracy, speed and patient comfort and as well as great technology is supported by our amazing imaging team. I am so pleased we have Jonathan Davies to do the honours. An inspiration to many in Wales, he continues that great work with Nuffield by encouraging all of us, as we get older, to keep fit and active. This message will certainly help add years to life and more life to years!”
Radiology Manager Anita Cox added, “I have been privileged to witness unwavering commitment and innovative work of the radiology team. I have nothing but praise for my Nuffield Health colleagues and all those involved in this exciting opportunity to install a state of the art MRI scanner with incredible diagnostic capability at the Nuffield Cardiff Bay Hospital.”
