Magnetic Resonance Imaging: Overcoming Challenges and Exploring the Future of Low-Field Equipment
Fábio Pivatto
Tecnólogo em Radiologia / Experiência em Gest?o e Supervis?o/ Gradua??o Marketing/
Introduction
Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) is an essential tool in medical diagnostics, providing detailed visualization of the internal structures of the human body without the need for invasive procedures or ionizing radiation. In Brazil, the distribution of MRI machines is uneven, reflecting regional disparities in healthcare access. This article explores the availability of these machines, the most common exams and their costs, and presents solutions to broaden access, especially in underserved areas.
Availability of MRI Machines in Brazil
The distribution of MRI machines in Brazil varies significantly between states, highlighting regional inequalities. According to data from the National Supplementary Health Agency (ANS) and the National Health Establishments Registry (CNES), there are approximately 2,500 MRI machines in the country, distributed as follows:
This concentration of machines in states with greater infrastructure reflects the urgent need to expand MRI access in less developed regions.
Most Common Exams and Their Costs
The most commonly requested MRI exams cover various areas of the body and are crucial for accurate diagnoses:
Exams Conducted via SUS and Private Exams
The Unified Health System (SUS) covers various MRI exams, especially those deemed essential for diagnosing severe and complex conditions. In 2023, approximately 3.5 million MRI exams were performed via SUS across Brazil. However, the public system still faces limitations, both in terms of the number of available machines and the waiting times for exams.
Moreover, SUS does not cover all types of MRI, especially those involving advanced imaging techniques or preventive check-ups. In these cases, patients must turn to private services, which can represent a significant cost for those without health insurance or limited financial resources.
Cost of Setting Up an MRI Room: A Barrier to Overcome
Setting up an MRI room is a significant financial challenge, with costs exceeding just the equipment investment. MRI machines, particularly high-power ones like 1.5 and 3.0 Tesla, can cost between R$ 2,500,000 and R$ 8,000,000.
Additionally, room setup requires further investments including:
These factors make the total cost of setting up an MRI room range between R$ 3,500,000 and R$ 10,000,000, a prohibitive amount for many healthcare institutions, especially in less developed regions.
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The Need for Accessible Solutions: Low-Field Equipment
Given the high costs, a viable solution could be the adoption of low-field MRI equipment, which is more affordable and, with the support of artificial intelligence (AI), can provide accurate diagnoses for many conditions. These machines, although having lower resolution compared to 1.5 and 3 Tesla machines, can be crucial for increasing MRI access in more remote areas and smaller institutions.
Low-field machines range between 0.2 and 0.5 Tesla and cost significantly less, between R$ 500,000 and R$ 1,500,000.
Moreover, these machines do not require complex electromagnetic shielding and have lower operational and maintenance demands.
Main Exams Performed with Low-Field Equipment and Their Costs
Low-field machines can perform various exams, which, while not having the same precision as high-field machines, provide satisfactory results in many cases. Some of the main exams include:
Comparison: High-Field vs. Low-Field Equipment
The primary difference between high-field and low-field equipment lies in the magnetic field strength, which directly impacts image quality and exam time. High-field machines (1.5 to 3.0 Tesla) offer higher resolution and are more suited for exams requiring high precision, such as complex neurological and cardiac exams. However, they have high acquisition and maintenance costs.
In contrast, low-field machines (0.2 to 0.5 Tesla) are more accessible, with lower operational costs, including reduced energy consumption and maintenance expenses. Although they do not offer the same image quality, they are suitable for a broad range of exams, especially in areas with lower infrastructure and in smaller institutions.
Author's Vision
MRI is a life-saving technology, but unequal access to this essential resource remains a reality in Brazil. Financial and structural barriers need to be addressed with creativity and innovation, exploring solutions like low-field machines with integrated AI, which could be a viable option for smaller institutions.
This article was inspired by a lecture by Dr. Professor Alessandro Mazzola, a physicist and MRI applications specialist, who emphasized the importance of rethinking MRI implementation strategies in Brazil. It is crucial that public health policies and private initiatives align to ensure that all Brazilians, regardless of their location or financial condition, have access to high-quality diagnostics.
Conclusion
MRI is an indispensable tool in modern diagnostics, but its access is still limited by financial and structural barriers. Investing in low-field equipment could be an effective solution to democratize this access, improving public health and reducing regional disparities.
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