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Memorial Hermann-Texas Medical Center (TMC) is the first hospital in Texas to employ a new portable magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology that enables clinicians to quickly and conveniently perform scans, access results in real-time and tailor treatment - all at a patient’s bedside.

According to the manufacturer, the portable MRI boasts the ability to be wheeled to the patient, plugged into a standard electrical outlet and operated using a wireless tablet. The open and safe design also allows family members to stay close during the scan to provide comfort and even hold the patient’s hand.

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“This device is a game changer for patients suffering from traumatic brain injuries or other serious neurological conditions like stroke,” said H. Alex Choi, MD, a neurointensivist at UTHealth Houston Neurosciences (UTHN) and Director of Neurocritical Care at Memorial Hermann-TMC. “Many of our patients are critical and minutes count, so the convenience of being able to bypass transport and get the scans we need quickly at the bedside could potentially result in a faster diagnosis and improved outcome for the patient.”

The device is FDA approved for imaging of the brain and head for patients of all ages. Memorial Hermann-TMC will utilize the technology in the Neuro Surgical Intensive Care Unit (NSICU) with plans to expand its use in the future.