Solon, Ohio-based RSTI (Radiological Service Training Institute), which has been providing diagnostic imaging training since 1985, announces that it is expanding its portfolio to include a “Principles of Servicing MRI”  training course in November. The course will be divided into two, week-long phases.
Along with a strong emphasis on MRI safety, MRI Phase 1 will include an introduction to all the major sub-systems and basic diagnostic tools of the MRI. Moreover, the 17 lab sections will provide ample opportunities for service engineers to become familiar with the system, RSTI officials say. Labs will cover learning to run diagnostic scans, testing RF coils, as well as QA procedures. And an introduction to MRI physics will be utilized to underpin all these activities, RSTI officials add.

MRI Phase 2 begins with a strong emphasis on MRI physics to enable engineers to diagnose image artifacts like spiking, ferrous materials, and RF interference. The course then continues with more information about the sub-system diagnostics and preventive maintenance procedures. Nine more hands-on lab sections round out the second week.

RSTI’s initial MRI courses are non-OEM-specific, making them ideal for any medical facility that requires MRI training. Although the training features a Siemens Healthineers Avanto 1.5T system, it is compatible with any type of MRI equipment.

Lance King, who worked in MRI at Philips Healthcare for more than 35 years, has joined RSTI to develop and deliver these courses. As part of the Systems Engineering group, King’s projects included work on MRI specialty coils and specialty MRI systems such as the NIAD Biohazard MRI, 3T PET-MR and the 7T Ultra High Field system. King finished his career at Philips as an MRI course development/training engineer. He also has experience with regulatory institutions such as the U.S. FDA and the American College of Radiology and was a member of the National Electrical Manufacturers Association’stechnical committee for MR.

In other course news, RSTI is planning to expand its MRI portfolio in 2020 by adding a Phase 3 Advanced MRI Troubleshooting course. A Siemens Tims MRI Family covering the Siemens Symphony Tims, Espree, Avanto, and Verio is scheduled for the second quarter of 2020, with a GE Excite and GEMS MRI Family course is planned for 2020, as well.