Initial experience with remote MRI scanning support in an oncology focused practice: Opportunities for expanded access to radiology care

TL;DR

This paper explores the early use of remote MRI scanning to improve access to oncology imaging and reduce operational challenges.

Contribution

The study presents an early clinical application of a remote MRI system in an oncology-focused practice.

Findings

Remote MRI scanning enabled technically complex exams without affecting acquisition time.

Operational benefits included remote training and support during staff shortages.

Connectivity issues and the need for an onsite technologist were noted limitations.

Abstract

As medical imaging demand grows, there is increasing stress on the currently available workforce to deliver consistent, high‐quality imaging studies while ensuring rapid study turnaround times and round‐the‐clock radiology coverage. Advances in remote access technology facilitating remote scan assistance and control are now commercially available to address these pressing clinical needs.

This work evaluated an early clinical application of a virtual scanner operations system (syngo Virtual Cockpit (VA13A, Siemens Healthineers, Erlangen, Germany) for remote magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) monitoring and scan control at three geographically distant outpatient sites associated with our primary institution.

The system facilitated execution of technically complex oncologic MRI exams at these geographically distant clinics with no measurable impact on acquisition time compared to MR imaging performed at our primary hospital location. Additional operational improvements were realized with the use of the system, including remote staff training, technical assistance, and scanning during staff shortages. This early iteration of remote scanning had some limitations including limited utility for additional assistance in the scanning of those protocols that require complex physical setup. Moreover, connectivity issues were noted to be a limiting factor that contributed to operational delays. It was still necessary to have an onsite MRI technologist at the scanner console to interface with the patient and ensure safe operation.

Despite these limitations, our initial experience demonstrates that the use of remote MRI scanning support facilitates staffing flexibility while providing expanded patient access to oncology MRI services.

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