US Naval Hospital Guam's MRI Machine Adds Value to Patients, Hospital

By Jennifer Zingalie, Naval Hospital Guam Public Affairs

AGANA HEIGHTS, Guam (NNS) -- U.S. Naval Hospital Guam recently added a Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) machine to its inventory, which not only provides better access for patients, but is projected to save the hospital approximately $225,000 annually.

The machine was acquired as part of the recent construction of the new hospital facility that was completed in April.

"In the past, if an MRI procedure was needed, the patients would have to have their imaging performed out in town," said radiologist, Cmdr. Michael Fenton, of the U.S. Naval Hospital (USNH) Guam Radiology Department. "In Guam, there are two other imaging facilities that perform this type of imaging exam. The average cost of an MRI exam is approximately $2,000 which adds up over time."

Magnetic resonance imaging uses magnetism and radio frequency waves to visualize the anatomy of the human body. These machines can be useful in identifying disease processes earlier than other medical imaging technologies. According to Fenton, this can result in a more accurate diagnostic work up prior to definitive care. Currently, MRI is also used in diagnosis and treatment of concussive injuries, traumatic brain injury and post-traumatic stress disorder.

Radiologists, such as Fenton, have at least 10 years of education and practical training. When passing a radiologists office, the physician may be seen sitting in a dark room staring at numerous computer monitors, evaluating various images of the body. They are trained to distinguish normal human anatomy from abnormal anatomy.

"When a primary care manager examines a patient and needs to make a diagnosis, we assist by evaluating the patient's anatomy to help them to make an accurate diagnosis. Often, we are asked to perform image guided biopsies (removal of breast, bone, or soft tissue) as well," said Fenton.

He also explained the radiology staff members are able to continuously maintain and enhance their skills on the MRI now the machine is on site. According to him, the radiologists at USNH Guam read approximately 150 imaging studies per day, including X-ray, Computed Tomography, Nuclear Medicine imaging, MRI, and ultrasound.

Strategically located, USNH Guam is a vital asset to the Pacific in supporting Individual Medical Readiness.

"Having advanced imaging capabilities at USNH Guam provides more accurate and timely diagnoses avoiding the need to send patients stateside or on unnecessary medical evacuations," said Fenton. "The ability to do more imaging here on Guam translates to better health care access, improved health care delivery, decreased health care costs and, most importantly, high quality patient care."

With newer and more advanced high-tech equipment, Fenton said the challenge the new hospital faces is ensuring it is a good steward of using the MRI, which means understanding when an MRI is truly needed.

"Having multiple ways of imaging a patient is helpful to make an accurate diagnosis," he explained. "We strive to use the right imaging tool in order to make the right diagnosis. Ultimately, this leads to the best outcome for the patient."