June 30, 2014 — Argentina’s team doctor, Dr. Alejandro Rolon, is taking no chances with his World Cup squad in Brazil. The complete medical imaging department that has been created at Argentina’s training base includes a dedicated magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) system at the training center itself, and extends to field-level ultrasound scanning of injuries, if required.
Esaote helped Rolon establish the facility. Rolon will be using Esaote’s O-Scan, a small and efficient MRI system specifically designed for imaging extremities such as knees and ankles, and its fully portable MyLab ultrasound system.
Preparation is everything in world-class sports. The pressure to succeed is not only on the players and the manager but also on the medical teams. Fast diagnosis is fundamental to treat and rehabilitate star players such as Lionel Messi and Sergio Agüero — getting them back to playing as quickly as possible.
“There is no other system like the O-Scan MRI that allows for an easy installation directly in the stadium. I will also have one of Esaote’s fully portable ultrasound systems over my shoulder for immediate on-field diagnosis,” said Rolon.
“On the pitch I am able to diagnose not only the muscolotendinous pathologies, but also many other bone- and joint-related injuries. While ultrasound is the main tool, the O-Scan MRI back at the camp will confirm the diagnosis and help me optimize treatment.”
Esaote has previously installed MRI systems at the ATP Madrid Masters’ tennis tournament, and many club sides around the world have systems in their stadiums and training grounds. However, this is the first time that a dedicated MRI system has made an appearance at a World Cup.
“This is definitely the trend in elite sport and the future of sports medicine,” said Rolon. “Being able to instantly and correctly identify and classify the lesion will speed up athletes’ recovery time. The best opportunity for intervention, treatment and rehabilitation is right after the injury.”
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February 05, 2026 
