New MRI scanner at Southampton hospital 'a game-changer'

The intra-operative MRI (iMRI) scanner, now operational at University Hospital Southampton (UHS), gives surgeons precise real-time images during procedures.

This technology is revolutionising paediatric neurosurgery, improving outcomes for seriously ill children.

The iMRI scanner was funded by The Murray Parish Trust in collaboration with UHS NHS Foundation Trust.

 UHS Neurosurgeon, Aabir Chakraborty and Murray Parish Trust Co-Founder, Jim Murray (Image: Murray Parish Trust) It is a significant technological advancement for the hospital, providing detailed imaging during surgeries for brain tumours and other severe neurological conditions.

Previously, patients requiring an MRI during surgery had to be moved to another part of the hospital.

This new addition reduces such complications and the need for further surgery.

UHS conducts life-saving brain surgeries on about 200 children each year.

The scanner has already considerably improved the care for these patients.

It not only supports medical excellence but also enhances the mental wellbeing of patients and their families.

The co-founders of The Murray Parish Trust, Sarah Parish MBE and Jim Murray MBE, said: "The iMRI scanner is transformative, both medically and emotionally.

"It allows critically ill patients to undergo safer, more effective procedures.

"We know first-hand how terrifying it is when a child is undergoing surgery.

"This iMRI scanner helps to reduce the anxiety and distress for both the child and their family.

"Knowing this scanner is there to guide surgeons in real time is deeply reassuring.

"We’re so proud to have helped bring this technology to Southampton and are incredibly grateful to everyone who made it possible."

The scanner is also a crucial asset for adult patients treated at the Wessex Neurological Centre at UHS.

Paul Grundy, chief medical officer at UHS, praised the technological advancement: "The state-of-the-art iMRI scanner is a game-changer for UHS, giving surgeons the ability to obtain real-time, live images during surgery.

"This technology enables quicker diagnosis and treatment planning.

"It reduces risks as well as the need for repeat procedures, enhancing the overall recovery of our patients.

"We are extremely grateful to The Murray Parish Trust and its generous supporters, who have made this possible."

With this scanner, UHS joins a select group of UK hospitals equipped with such leading-edge technology.