Mission Complete!

Ilkeston Community Hospital

Site Survey, Installation, and Commissioning of ESAOTE Magnifico Open MRI Scanner - May 2024

Mission Complete!

IMOTEK International Ltd is pleased to announce the completion of the latest MRI installation at Ilkeston Community Hospital: the ESAOTE Magnifico Open MRI scanner.

Project Overview: IMOTEK's involvement in the project included:

• Initial site survey
• Delivery
• Mechanical installation
• Calibration
• Commissioning
• Handover

The experienced MRI team at IMOTEK successfully installed the 16,500Kg permanent magnet into the newly completed imaging facility.

Challenging Start: In the early stages, an environmental site survey (evaluating radio frequency, AC/DC magnetic interference, and vibration) revealed issues with intermittent high amplitude AC interference. Fault-finding with comprehensive survey equipment identified a wiring issue in an adjacent building, which was promptly rectified with the help of the Estates team and hospital electricians. The DC, RF, and vibration parameters met the required specifications.

Site Survey Setup: The site survey equipment was set up in the host room to acquire 24 hours of data. IMOTEK coordinated with the RF cage manufacturer, Techno Shield Srl, for the delivery and installation of a top-of-the-range RF cage featuring:

• Large viewing window
• Fully illuminated cloud ceiling
• Color-changing RGB illumination
• Patient intercom system
• Patient panic alarm
• In-room audio system

The RF cage installation was completed on schedule, with only a single day pause in construction to position the magnet.

Progress and Installation: Mechanical installation, cabling, and power-up were completed by the IMOTEK team following the completion of building works and air conditioning commissioning.

Magnet Installation: The magnet delivery route was prepared a day in advance, with the rear of the RF cage and wall removed. The 16,500Kg magnet was craned into position and maneuvered into the building.

Final Steps: Calibration, including on-site shimming of the magnet, was performed by the IMOTEK team. Quality and safety tests were completed before handing over to the trust medical physics team.

Adjustments and Completion: Adjustment of the RF transmission circuit was carried out. Thanks to the skills and experience within the IMOTEK team, the project was a success from start to finish.

Team Reflections: Daniel Green, Service Manager and MRI project lead, commented: "Having been involved with over 50 MRI installations during my time with IMOTEK, it is a pleasure to complete another superb Magnifico installation for ESAOTE UK. The Magnifico presents unique challenges, weighing 16,500Kg as a permanent magnet. This installation was easier compared to the previous Magnifico installation into a basement in central London. No two installations are ever the same, and each site presents unique challenges. The team looks forward to the next installation."

Client Testimonials: John Manchester of ESAOTE UK stated: "It is always a pleasure to work with IMOTEK on our MRI projects. They provide over thirty years of experience and a wide breadth of knowledge. Our customers always remark on their professionalism, punctuality, and hard work. The works carried out are always to the highest and safest standard, with the customer always at the forefront of their thoughts."

Final Testing: During the final testing phase, a real patient (the project lead) was scanned by colleague Antony, demonstrating the scanner's capabilities.