X-rays are still frequently used in medicine. But, this is the 21st century and other methods to see inside the human body are now available. An MRI (magnetic resonance image), like an X-ray, takes internal pictures of the body, but the MRI, unlike X-rays, has the ability to show those images at various angles without the use of radiation.

Monongahela Valley Hospital (MVH) is committed to providing those latest advancements and, for Outpatient Services, making them as convenient as possible for patients to obtain them. As a result of that commitment,
MVH has installed a Hitachi High Performance Open MRI to its vast array of outpatient equipment and services available in Suite 130 of the Mon-Vale HealthPLEX located at WillowPointe Plaza on Route 51 in Rostraver Township.

The Open MRI unit focuses on providing the ultimate in patient comfort and uses a wide-open design offering a panoramic view from all four sides to create a relaxing environment. The open design alleviates anxiety and stress and allows a loved one or friend to be seated at the patient’s side during the exam. It creates a tranquil atmosphere enhancing the patient’s experience.

The new Open MRI Unit can be especially attractive to larger patients or those with claustrophobic tendencies. Patients are getting the best of both worlds – an Open MRI and superior imaging performance. The unit provides increased head and elbow room and quality imaging.

MRI uses radio and magnetic waves to produce images of the body’s internal structures such as soft tissues, muscles, nerves and bones and provides very good soft tissue contrast. The high quality pictures may be used to evaluate injury or the presence of disease and illustrates the anatomy and functions of the body. In addition, the MRI can scan for advanced medical conditions such as vascular, abdominal, cardiac and neurological disorders. An MRI procedure allows physicians to view inside the body without surgery or the use of radiation.

“The new Open MRI Unit was placed at the Mon-Vale HealthPLEX to add to the overall convenience of our patients and is another key tool for our physician’s patient diagnosis,” said Thomas J. Cullen, senior vice president at Monongahela Valley Hospital.

“Knowing you need to have an MRI examination no longer needs to be a traumatic event,” he added. “Having to travel to an unfamiliar location may be unsettling. But having a convenient facility with a variety of medical procedures in one location can help to uncomplicated those concerns.”

A multitude of other outpatient testing services are provided at the Mon-Vale HealthPLEX including traditional X-rays, blood draw, mammography, ultrasound, bone density testing and cardiac and pulmonary rehabilitation. Residents can take advantage of the HealthPLEX’s many physician offices, its close proximity and ease of parking.

Addition of the new Open MRI equipment augments the expansion and enhancement of radiology (medical imaging) services that have occurred at MVH during the past several years. These advancements have included installation of a fixed-site MRI and a 64-slice CT scanner at the hospital in Carroll Township.

Appointments can be made quickly and results obtained promptly. To schedule an appointment, please call 724-379-1900. All major insurance plans are accepted.

For more information about
all of the hospital’s imaging services,
call the MVH medical imaging department at
724-258-1040.