MRI’s strength in the diagnostic imaging community is attributed to a number of key elements, including its ability to acquire images without the use of ionizing radiation. MR imaging provides clinicians with unprecedented soft-tissue contrast, which is valuable in determining certain diseases and conditions.

Dubai Bone and Joint Center is committed to provide the latest and most innovative technology to the region. The services of our imaging department are diverse and complete, ranging from pediatric radiology and neuroradiology to general diagnostic radiology and magnetic resonance imaging. Our center uses the latest digital picture archiving communication system to analyze, manage, and store digital images. Importantly, our radiology team is expertly qualified and trained in giving maximum attention to patients during their radiology exam.

DBAJ is equipped with the latest radiological diagnostic systems in the world, which covers all our patients’ needs starting from the conventional X-ray procedures, CT-scan, DEXA scan, Ultrasound with the latest addition being the latest M.R.I machine from Siemens which is the first installation in the region. The Siemens Magnetom Essenza is a powerful 1.5 Tesla MRI system with technological innovations like Total Imaging Matrix (TIM) technology and isocenter matrix coil incorporated into it.

Features of the Siemens Magnetom Essenza 1.5 Tesla MRI system

1. Total Imaging Matrix (TIM) technology
   
   TIM technology has revolutionized MR imaging around the world by dramatically changing the workflow as well as improving patient comfort. For instance, a complete examination of the entire spine can be performed in less than 10 minutes, without having to reposition the patient even once. The advantage of isocenter matrix coil is that the user does not need to carry large, heavy spine coils any more and the patient preparation time is shortened. Magnetom Essenza also has a shorter magnet length as compared to many other conventional 1.5 Tesla MR systems, making the examination much more pleasant for the patient.
   
   
2. IsoCenter Matrix coil
   
   The IsoCenter Matrix coil is a powerful new innovation which is permanently positioned at the isocenter of the magnet and therefore always in position, ready to scan. The user does not need to carry large, heavy spine coils any more and the patient preparation time is shortened. Additionally, by ensuring the correct positioning of the coil excellent image quality is also guaranteed. The IsoCenter Matrix can be used in flexible combinations with other coils and works as a virtual 140 cm coil without patient repositioning in multi-step examinations. The system is used for conventional MR imaging - brain, spine and orthopedic imaging.
   
   
3. Focus Shoulder Array
   
   Another new feature of the Magnetom Essenza is the Focus Shoulder Array for optimum imaging of the shoulder. The coil’s shim wing shifts the examination area of the magnet from the middle of the system to the shoulder, which would lie at the edge of the measuring volume without this technology.
   
   
4. Shorter system length
   
   The Magnetom Essenza has a shorter system length as compared to many other conventional 1.5 Tesla MR systems which means that the head and feet of the patient remain outside of the system in most cases, making the examination much more pleasant for the person in the bore.
   
   

1. Improved Quality of imaging
   
   Thanks to its powerful V-engine gradients (30mT/m), the Magnetom Essenza delivers superior image quality for all clinical applications. The area of the patient to be examined can be covered with up to 25 seamlessly integrated coil elements that are read by 8 independent radiofrequency channels. It optimizes image quality with the IsoCenter Matrix coil at the magnet isocenter and improves diagnostic confidence with 1.5T image quality.
   
   
2. Convenience
   • TIM allows for flexibly combining up to four different coils, which make patient and coil repositioning virtually unnecessary. TIM also enables Parallel Imaging for reduced acquisition times
   • It also enhances patient comfort with a new, ultra-short (145 cm) 1.5T magnet. A complete examination of the entire spine can be performed in less than ten minutes.

Besides being a workhorse scanner and accommodating a variety of emerging applications, the new generation 1.5T system has a design that is more patient friendly.