After much manoeuvring and collective holding of breath, a new highly sophisticated MRI scanner was safely delivered and installed at Mayo General Hospital this week. The completion and commissioning of the unit is now taking place, with a view to accepting the first patients during the second week of March 2011.
The HSE has developed an area adjacent to the radiology department to house the new machine and will also provide the staffing for the new service. The scanner will have a very significant role to play in the investigation of patients diagnosed with different types of cancer. MRI scanning has also become an increasingly important tool in early and accurate detection and diagnosis of a range of other diseases and injuries.
The money for the MRI scanner has been raised through the generosity of the people of Mayo. The funds were raised by a number of established cancer charities, and the core groups involved were Cancer Action Mhaigh-Eo and the Bright Eyes Campaign.
Charlie Meehan, manager of Mayo General Hospital, welcomed the safe delivery and installation of the MRI scanner. “This is an excellent example of a joint venture between the local community and the hospital to ensure that the people of Mayo will have speedy access to the highest quality radiology services,” Mr Meehan said.
The new MRI service will be provided on a four day-per-week basis from the current two day-per-week service, and will significantly reduce waiting times for cancer-type investigations.
