What Is 'Time of Flight' PET Scanning?
Josh Nunez: April 25, 2024
If you’re one of the many imaging facilities considering an extremity MRI, chances are that you’ve heard of the OrthOne and MSK Extreme 1.0T, both manufactured by ONI Medical Systems (purchased by GE in 2009). As you consider both of these models, you might be asking “what is the difference?” Believe me, given that the systems look pretty much identical… you are not alone. I’ve received this question on multiple occasions, so I figured it might be time to answer in a blog!
As you can see the article is not long. This is because the differences between these models are few and relatively minor. But, for clarity's sake, let’s check them out:
What's Different? ONI OrthOne vs. MSK Extreme 1.0T
Patient Chair
The MSK Extreme includes an easily moveable ottoman that accompanies the patient chair. The ottoman was available to the OrthOne, but it was an optional add-on and is an unusual find on the secondary market.
Helium Fills
Because these are extremity magnets, helium refills don’t break the bank and aren’t needed that often (capacity is ~65 liters). However, the MSK does have a slightly more efficient magnet and ONI asserts that a refill is normally not required. In the case of the OrthOne, partial cryogen refills need to happen, at most, once a year.
Coils
Both the OrthOne and MSK Extreme offer a 180mm coil and a 123mm coil. Optional to the MSK was a 160mm specialty coil. It isn't uncommon to find an OrthOne with a specialty coil since the coil design was compatible with it.
Workstation
The MSK offers a more powerful computer system which includes an upgraded Pentium IV processor, increased hard drive storage capacity, DVD-R/W capability, and a larger 19-inch LCD panel (vs. 18-inch in the OrthOne).
Gradient System and Image Clarity
Despite the differences listed above, image clarity and gradient systems (15/60) remain the same with both models featuring great diagnostic images from the 1.0T superconductive magnet. There is a variant of the MSK with a 1.5T magnet, but these were produced under a limited run and are rare.
Hopefully this clears up the confusion, but, if you have any other questions, please contact us and we’ll be more than happy to help. Happy imaging!
