February 22, 2024
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TESLA 3 SCANNERS – CHECK WHICH SCANNER FROM YOUR TRUST

It is important for anyone having an MRI scan to check which scanner their Trust has as I have wondered why the scans at Lincoln County Hospital have not shown up the same details as the scans I had done privately and now I know why. I have found out that they use a 1.5 Tesla scanner.

I immediately contacted my MP, Victoria Atkins to advise that Lincoln United Hospital Trust should be provided with the most accurate scanner which to my knowledge is the Tesla 3.

I am just warning everyone to check and question in order to ensure they receive highly accurate scans.

I have found out that the following:

Diagnostic imaging department at The Lincoln Hospital, Lincolnshire offers a wide range of diagnostic tests and imaging examinations.

All imaging is processed using electronic technology known as CR (Computed Radiography) and PACS (Picture Archiving and Communication System) which enables fast, electronic display of all images and reports. 

At The Lincoln Hospital diagnostic imaging equipment is used that includes a wide bore 1.5T MRI scanner, ultrasound and a mobile 64-slice CT scanner (available every other Tuesday).

The diagnostic imaging department at The Lincoln Hospital offers the full range of routine and specialist services including: 

The main difference between a 1.5 Tesla (T) MRI scanner and a 3 Tesla MRI scanner lies in their magnetic field strength.

1.5 Tesla MRI scanners have a magnetic field strength of 1.5 Tesla, while 3 Tesla MRI scanners have a magnetic field strength of 3 Tesla.

Here are some implications of this difference:

1.     Image Quality: Generally, higher magnetic field strength (such as 3 Tesla) can provide better image quality compared to lower field strengths like 1.5 Tesla. This higher field strength can lead to increased signal-to-noise ratio, which results in clearer and more detailed images.

2.     Resolution: With higher magnetic field strength, there’s potential for higher spatial resolution, allowing for more detailed imaging of structures within the body.

3.     Scan Time: In some cases, higher field strength MRI scans may require shorter scan times to achieve comparable image quality to lower field strength scans. This can be beneficial for patients who may have difficulty remaining still for long periods.

4.     Cost and Availability: Generally, 3 Tesla MRI scanners are more expensive to purchase and maintain compared to 1.5 Tesla scanners. Additionally, they may not be as widely available as 1.5 Tesla scanners in all healthcare facilities.

5.     Clinical Applications: Both 1.5 Tesla and 3 Tesla MRI scanners have their own set of clinical applications. 3 Tesla MRI scanners are often preferred for certain types of imaging studies such as neurological imaging (brain and spinal cord), musculoskeletal imaging, and research applications where high-resolution imaging is crucial. However, 1.5 Tesla scanners are still widely used and may be preferred for certain clinical scenarios where higher field strength may not be necessary or may pose additional risks.

In summary, while both 1.5 Tesla and 3 Tesla MRI scanners serve the purpose of imaging internal structures of the body using magnetic resonance, the difference in magnetic field strength results in variations in image quality, resolution, scan time, cost, and clinical applications. The choice between the two depends on factors such as the specific imaging needs of the patient, availability of technology, and clinical judgment.

Surely the needs of the patient is paramount in terms of the provision by every Trust of the Tesla 3 scanner to ensure without doubt that they get the most accurate scans and I have therefore proven that the current 1.5 Tesla scan done by the hospital has missed vital details that need verification and checking out because I had a private Tesla 3 scan done for Elizabeth. I have told my MP that a Tesla 3 scanner is urgently required at Lincolnshire United Hospital Trust.

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