April 04, 2023
Tamariki MRI scans offer science breakthroughs
A Gisborne-based medical research project is breaking new ground in paediatric care.
Health sciences researcher Leigh Potter from the Matai Health Trust and biomedical engineer Dr Haribalan Kumar from the University of Auckland’s Bioengineering Institute have so far done head-to-toe Magnetic Resonance Image scans of 30 tamariki.
Dr Kumar says the aim is to create world-first predictive computer modelling for early detection amd treatment of abnormailities.
Ms Potter says whanau have been very supportive – and despite lengthy periods under the MRI scan the tamariki have enjoyed the process.
“They get to watch their favourite movies on the MRI scanner… and it’s also quite cool that we can engage them in science very early. So we’re showing them their images of their brains, their hearts – and making it quite interactive,” she says.
Leigh Potter says her team is analysing the data to develop new insights into children’s brain, cardiac, bone, lung and muscle function.