KUALA LUMPUR: For a mere RM4,000, a heart patient can now obtain a high resolution and definition of cardiac morphology, structure and function, thanks to a new revolutionary magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).
REVOLUTIONARY: Awang Adek (right)being briefed by IJN consultant cardiologist Datuk Dr Sanjiv Joshi on the new MRI machine. — Bernama photo
The ‘Magnetom Avanto’, a fully-dedicated cardiac system available at the National Heart Institute (IJN) here, is the first of its kind in South East Asia.
IJN chief executive officer Datuk Seri Dr Robayaah Zambahari has described the RM7 million equipment as a revolutionary, high-end, non-invasive diagnostic tool which was non-radiating.
She said it was capable of giving excellent image quality, better visualisation of morphology, structure and functionality of the cardiovascular system.
Between six and eight patients could use the ‘Magnetom Avanto’ daily, she said, adding that todate, 50 patients had benefited from the equipment since it began operation in the middle of last month.
“With early and accurate evaluation, appropriate and effective treatment can be instituted, in addition to heart diseases.
“The Magnetom Avanto MRI can also be used to diagnose acute stroke, vascular diseases, cancer and sports injuries without using X-ray,” Dr Rabayaah told reporters after its official launch by Deputy Finance Minister Datuk Dr Awang Adek Hussin at the IJN yesterday.
IJN, a leading cardiovascular and thoracic health centre, is a wholly-owned company under the Ministry of Finance (MOF Inc).
Dr Awang Adek said the introduction of the ‘Magnetom Avanto’ MRI system would not only create better focus in its area of expertise but also further propel IJN to a new and exciting phase.
“This first cardiac system dedicated to heart diseases, MRI Magnetom Avanto is the first in South East Asia. It is something to be proud of, not just for IJN but also the government,” he said in his speech.
He noted that major risk factors for heart disease include high blood pressure, high blood cholesterol, smoking, diabetes, physical inactivity and poor nutrition.
“In 2006, heart diseases were the second leading cause of death, accounting for 15.5 per cent of those who died in government hospitals.
“With this equipment, patient management is also further enhanced from the time a patient is admitted, to the time he or she is discharged,” said Dr Awang Adek. — Bernama