New MRI scanner to boost patient care and research in Harrogate
What’s an MRI scanner?
An MRI (Magnetic Resonance Imaging) scanner is a big tube with powerful magnets. When you lie inside it, the scanner uses strong magnetic fields and radio waves to create detailed images of the inside of your body. It’s super useful for checking out almost any part of you, from your brain and spinal cord to your heart, blood vessels, and internal organs.
Why is this important?
Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust is one of only 36 NHS organisations in England to get this funding. The new state-of-the-art scanner will be used for a variety of research projects, with a special focus on using Artificial Intelligence (AI) to help diagnose different conditions.
They’re already ahead of the game with AI – they’ve got software that can detect bone fractures in about 30 seconds. This new MRI scanner will also be available for clinical use when it’s not being used for research. This makes sure it will benefit as many patients as possible.
Welcoming the MRI scanner
Dr. Jacqueline Andrews, Medical Director at Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust, is thrilled about the funding. She says, “This significant sum will help us improve our research and innovation infrastructure, ensuring our patients have access to cutting-edge clinical trials and technologies.”
Professor Alison Layton, Director of Research and Innovation at Harrogate and District NHS Foundation Trust, adds, “This is a huge achievement for our clinical teams. It levels up access across the region, allowing us to involve our community in important research and build on our imaging expertise.”
Looking ahead
Harrogate hospitals are also investing in a dedicated clinical research facility and a new innovation hub. These efforts are already paying off, with more patients participating in research and innovation studies.
This new MRI scanner is just one part of their commitment to providing quality healthcare and research opportunities.
Doctor Neal Larkman, Doctor Dan Fascia and Doctor Gui Tran who led the funding bid for a research MRI scanner for the local NHS in Harrogate.
