In Oct 2000, VGH-HT Imaging Center, founded at Taipei Veterans General Hospital, is the first in the world to utilize magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) for early detection of cancer, stroke and heart disease, the three leading causes of death in the nation.

 


  
MRI, developed during the 90’s, is the most advanced medical imaging device that allows one to see ‘into’ the human body and it has a remarkable benefit of being a detailed non-invasive and radiation-free modality and also provides a multiplanar description of any lesions. Unlike the ordinary radiograph, it is far more accurate and precise to detect presence of any structural evidence of disease in almost any part of the body, from the brain and spinal column to the lungs, breasts, heart and various organs of the abdomen. The revolutionary impact that it has over the medical science is credited by the Nobel Prize in Medicine 2003.


   VGH-HT Imaging Center delivers a highly personalized service in a comfortable stress-free environment with respect for confidentiality of information. Experienced radiologists review and manage all images data. Family doctors also take care of health management plan, including referrals and followed-ups.

   We have studied thousands of patients with previously known illnesses, or suspected with certain conditions needing confirmation-verification, disease staging or follow-up. MRI survey may provide complementary information to abnormal functional studies. MRI may even provide proof of illness despite a normal functional study in patients presenting with non-specific complaints, not diagnosed by conventional means.




 

 


   Asymptomatic persons desiring assessment of health status have greatly benefited from this kind of examination. We have found a 2% diagnostic rate for all cancers combined, 6% for non-cancer conditions and 15% for atherosclerosis and related vascular conditions.