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Posted: April 22nd, 2025
NRMC Invests in State-of-the-Art Imaging Technology
Committed to providing high quality healthcare services, NRMC has invested in the latest imaging technology, the GE SIGNA Artist Evo MR. NRMC is the first facility in Louisiana to have this new state-of-the-art MR system.
The SIGNA Artist Evo MR is a magnetic resonance system that provides cutting edge technology and imaging capabilities benefiting both patients and providers. It is the most advanced 1.5T MRI system with the fastest scan capabilities and the highest image quality. Its imaging capabilities includes vascular, musculoskeletal, prostate, chest wall, brain, neck, breast, abdominal and run-off studies – serving the needs of all referring physicians. The system’s advanced software allows for multiple contrasts for better detection of pathology enabling more accurate diagnoses and treatment plans.
For patients, the MRI offers increased comfort and shorter scan times. Its large 70cm bore provides more patient space, reducing claustrophobia by 90%, and has in-bore lighting allowing the Technologist to have full view of the patient for increased safety. Patients can be scanned feet-first which greatly reduces patient anxiety. Blanket coils, which are lightweight blankets, also improve patient comfort.
“The SIGNA Artist Evo MR system has a broad range of applications and capabilities. One of the many advanced features includes Air Recon DL which reduces scan time by 50% and provides improved image quality allowing us to see the smallest abnormalities other systems could miss,” stated Derek Anthony, Director of Radiology at NRMC. “It is exciting to be the first facility in Louisiana to have this cutting-edge technology and is a huge benefit to our community to have such a high level of imaging technology right here at home in Natchitoches.”
“Inspiring excellence everyday is our mission, and our entire team, from our Associates to our Medical Staff and Board, is focused on patient-centered care. We are continually looking for ways to innovate and improve the health and wellness of our community,” stated Kirk Soileau, CEO of NRMC. “In the past five years we have invested in the latest technology opening up tremendous treatment options for our patients and our community. We do things here in Natchitoches that many larger health systems cannot do. The capabilities of this new MRI system are phenomenal and have completely transformed diagnostic imaging. As a “A” rated hospital we are constantly evaluating our outcomes and performances, and this new MRI system ensures we are equipped with exceptional imagining technology to serve our patients and our providers.”
The SIGNA Artist Evo is also kinder for our environment as it uses the same magnet from the prior MR system – reducing the hospitals carbon footprint by eliminating waste and reducing helium consumption.