September 1, 2000

The MGH Radiology Department recently opened a state-of-the-art, full-service imaging facility in the Mass General West building in Waltham. Mass General West Imaging is the only free standing, full-service, multi-modality imaging facility west of Boston.

The center offers high-speed computed tomography (CT) technology, which is capable of producing four images per scan as opposed to CT scanners that produce only a single scan at a time. This technology permits more efficient use of X-rays resulting in higher-quality scans in shorter scan times.

Mass General West Imaging also is equipped to offer patients and referring clinicians other diagnostic radiology services such as MRI, ultrasound, three-dimensional CT and MRI imaging, nuclear medicine, fluoroscopy and comprehensive pediatric imaging to complete the full range of services available at the center. Mammography services will be added in early 2001. Imaging services also include a chest screening exam using a low-dose CT for the early detection of lung cancer.

MGH radiologists will be interpreting all of the studies performed at Mass General West Imaging – both on-site and at the MGH main campus – using special high-speed Internet technology with on-line image transfer.

According to James H. Thrall, MD, chief of MGH Radiology, the new imaging center will offer the quality and depth of medical expertise of a tertiary care medical center with the convenience of a suburban location for the benefit of patients who live in the area. "The establishment of Mass General West and our new imaging center are tangible indicators of the hospital's commitment to serve the entire community," he says.

Mass General West Imaging is located off Interstate 95/128 at exit 27B and is open seven days a week, including evenings. Free parking is available in the adjoining garage. Same-day CT and MRI appointments are available and can be made by calling (800) 697-8296.