All medical imaging systems are created equal, right?
Wrong.
As any radiologist, rad tech or medical equipment purchasing agent knows, different manufacturers have different strengths. Some 
may offer better purchase prices, while others have a stronger warranty or lower service costs.The recent sale of Toshiba Medical Systems Corporation to Canon Inc. only adds to some of the confusion about which medical imaging equipment is the right choice.
Because Atlantis Worldwide has 30+ years experience providing refurbished and used medical imaging equipment to clinics, hospitals, practices and other healthcare facilities, we recognize and understand the strengths (and weaknesses!) of most manufacturers. We’ve compiled this guide to MRI medical imaging manufacturers so you can start your buying or selling process armed with knowledge. Consider it a primer of sorts.
Which MRI Manufacturer is Right for Your Needs?
Siemens: A Siemens MRI delivers lower upfront costs, high performance and more features than many. Siemens is one of two manufacturers that offers wide-bore models on the secondary market—the other being Toshiba. (We’ll get to that later.)
It also offers TIM or Total Imaging Matrix. It allows whole-body imaging without having to reposition the patient. It also has zero boil off magnet designs, resulting in high efficiency. Siemens MRI Scanners also burn very little cryogen.
GE: The bad news is, when you purchase a GE MRI system you’ll pay higher upfront costs. The good news? The cost of service will be significantly lower than with those from other manufacturers. It’s also easy to find parts when needed, and easy to find someone trained to work on the systems. These systems are also very upgradeable and its quite affordable to do so. Talk about a win-win.
Philips: When you buy an MRI Scanner by Philips on the secondary market, upfront costs are lower than most. You also get some of the best images available, due to the powerful gradients made possible by Philips magnets. However, their magnet designs eat up cryogen, so you’ll want to buy a service contract that includes cryogen coverage for helium loss. Oh, and as a rule, the ongoing service costs are going to be higher than most.
Toshiba: On the secondary market, the front end costs for Toshiba MRI are much lower. Which is a good thing, since service costs will be higher. But all things considered, it all balances out in the end, making it competitive with other brands. However, Toshiba has recently been sold to Canon. And while Canon is a well respected multinational company and has stated it is committed to growing and investing in its healthcare business, only time will tell.
Decisions, Decisions
The reality is, all four companies make fine medical imaging equipment. You just need to ask yourself, “Is it more important to save money on upfront costs? Or will my CFO be happier if my ongoing maintenance costs are lower?”
Hopefully, this little comparison gives you a great place to start in your decision making process. Just remember, it’s always wise to ask for guidance from an industry expert. At Atlantis Worldwide, we can provide you with information, insights and advice regarding the right system to fit your needs, budget and facility!
Talk to us today! Call Jeff Weiss at 212-366-9100 or jeffweiss@atlantisworldwide.com
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- Your Body Image: New Uses for DXA
- Can Your MRI Be Hacked?
- Free MRI Resources
