Radiology system saves time and money

Photo By Tech. Sgt. Kevin Iinuma | Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging technologists observe a patient during a cardiac MRI scan at Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center, Joint Base San Antonio-Lackland, Texas. Cardiac MRI, which takes approximately 20-45 minutes, is a non-invasive assessment of the function and structure of the heart.  

JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, TX, UNITED STATES

11.16.2018

Story by Staff Sgt. Kevin Iinuma 

59th Medical Wing

With cardiothoracic disease imaging at the forefront in computer-aided detection, artificial Intelligence and machine learning research, Lt. Col. (Dr.) Giovanni Lorenz, from the 59th Medical Wing, provides knowledge and expertise toward solving major coronary diseases.

Currently, there are only two fellowship-trained cardiothoracic radiologists in the Air Force. Lorenz, who serves at Wilford Hall Ambulatory Surgical Center, and another at Travis Air Force Base’s David Grant USAF Medical Center in Fairfield, Calif.

“Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging can usually solve the anatomic and functional questions in one exam,” said Lorenz. “This makes it a very cost-effective tool for our colleagues and a time saver for patients.”

Cardiac MRI, which takes approximately 20-45 minutes, is a non-invasive assessment of the function and structure of the heart.

“Twenty-five patients have undergone exams since cardiac MRI became available here at Wilford Hall [in October],” said Lorenz. “We’ve received an increase number of patients, so we’ve had to increase appointment availability from once a week to twice a week.”

Cardiac MRI staff continues to explore innovative ways of establishing a test that will give the most anatomic and functional information in one exam. Lorenz believes his department has this ability and is excited to prove it.

“Right now [the 59th MDW is] on the rise,” said Lorenz. “Our team is creating world class capabilities here at WHASC and are committed to being a high reliability organization. I’m blessed to be working with some of the smartest MRI technologists and cardiologists in my career.”

Lorenz joined the Air Force with a goal to become a physician and treat service members.

“I’m ecstatic to be a part of the 59th MDW mission and provide cardiac MRI for patients,” said Lorenz. “I’ve previously called San Antonio home when I worked at Brooks Air Force Base, and more recently as a diagnostic radiology resident at [Brooke Army Medical Center].”

• Date Taken: 11.16.2018
• Date Posted: 12.13.2018 15:59
• Story ID: 303483
• Location: JOINT BASE SAN ANTONIO-LACKLAND, TX, US