Contact: Paul Meznarich
715-838-5805
EAU CLAIRE, Wis. – Luther Midelfort installed the latest in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) technology Saturday, Dec. 5, at its Luther Campus. The 3T MRI has twice the magnetic field strength as the facility’s existing 1.5T MRI and results in more detailed images obtained in a shorter amount of time. 
“With the addition of the 3T MRI, Luther Midelfort will be able to best meet the needs of our patients and ordering physicians,” said Wendy Stirnkorb, Radiology MRI Department supervisor. “Having two on-site MRI scanners will give us the flexibility to provide more timely service to our patients while using the most advanced MRI technology available. We will be able to offer MRI services that have been sent to Mayo Clinic in the past.”
The greater magnetic field strength, combined with high-density surface coils, allow the 3T MRI to obtain highly detailed images of finer body structures, such as joints and the brain, with faster scan times and greater patient comfort.
MRIs use the magnetic field of the MRI magnet and radio frequency to produce high-quality images of body structures and internal organs without exposing patients to ionizing radiation. Radio frequencies pulse through coils typically designed and positioned for specific parts of the body, such as knees, shoulders, wrists, heads, necks and spines.
The 3T MRI requires about eight weeks to complete installation, programming and testing. It should be fully operational and ready for Luther Midelfort patients in February.
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In partnership with Mayo Clinic, Luther Midelfort offers a full range of quality medical services, including cardiac and orthopedic surgery, cancer and trauma care programs. Through a network of community-based healthcare providers in west-central Wisconsin, Luther Midelfort provides access to experts close to home.
