Image source: Siemens Healthineers
News • Prensented at RSNA 2024
MRI platform expands on patient comfort and sustainability
Focus on sustainability: almost helium-free technology and advanced energy-saving mode
Siemens Healthineers expands the 1.5 Tesla Magnetom Flow. Platform to include a model with a 70-centimeter bore1 with the introduction of a new magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scanner at RSNA 2024. The Magnetom Flow. Platform is planned to require almost no helium2. Its image reconstruction capabilities supported by artificial intelligence (AI) can shorten acquisition times and improve image quality. A high degree of automation is meant to simplify complex workflows for staff and to increase productivity in clinical routine.
“The growing world population and the increasing demand for MRI examinations require systems that are efficient and conserve resources,” says Andreas Schneck, Head of Magnetic Resonance at Siemens Healthineers. “Contributing to greater sustainability in healthcare is not the only motivation for our expansion of the Magnetom Flow. Platform in the largest market segment with 1.5 Tesla field strength. We also aim to increase the availability and productivity of MRI through compact, intuitive devices that can support fast and precise diagnosis with excellent image quality.”
Image source: Siemens Healthineers
Magnetom Flow. is one of the most sustainable MRI platforms from Siemens Healthineers, the company reports. Its DryCool technology reduces the need for liquid helium from a maximum of 1,500 liters to just 0.7 liters, which can help to conserve resources and reduce costs. The systems are also designed to significantly reduce energy consumption: The new Eco Power Mode Pro of the Magnetom Flow. Platform with 70 cm bore size is a smart evolution of the existing energy-saving mode. The new Pro mode is being developed to continuously monitor the scanner’s load and to automatically regulate its cooling performance. Combined with other intelligent solutions, additional energy savings compared to the company’s previous generation of scanners are possible.
The design of the Magnetom Flow. Platform with 70 cm bore size is also intended to make installation easier: The system is planned to come with a closed helium circuit and without a quench pipe. With a height of less than two meters and a space requirement of 25 square meters, it is designed to be significantly smaller than conventional 1.5 Tesla scanners. This compact design allows for considerably reduced construction requirements compared to a conventional system.
Siemens Healthineers also plans to equip the new platform with a highly automated and intuitive user interface. The entire operation is designed to be carried out next to the patient – from registration to positioning to starting the examination. Deep Resolve’s advanced AI-powered algorithms for image reconstruction are intended to reduce acquisition time and improve image quality. The Magnetom Flow. Platform with 70 cm bore size is the first scanner planned to use Deep Resolve for 3D images and other clinical tasks. Both functions can contribute to greater workflow efficiency and shorter examination times, which can also benefit patients.
“Patient well-being plays a central role in MRI examinations. It not only promotes cooperation but reduces the need for repeat examinations and contributes to more precise results,” says Prof. Dr. Henrik Michaely from MVZ Radiologie Karlsruhe which already operates a system of the Magnetom Flow. Platform. “We also hope to benefit from all these aspects, if we can significantly increase overall patient throughput, also thanks to the simplified workflow.”
In addition to the new 70 cm bore, contour coils are intended to significantly improve patient comfort. The flexible coils are designed to adapt to the body and make positioning easier through integrated sensors. An XL version for faster examinations of larger body regions is planned. In addition, Siemens Healthineers plans to equip the scanner’s head and neck coils with new bone conduction audio technology for transmitting the audio signal wirelessly and with greater clarity. This technology can improve patient interaction with the operating staff and provide optimal music quality for the patient, adding to reducing anxiety during the examination.
The Magnetom Flow. Platform with a 70 cm bore size is intended as a scalable solution for healthcare facilities with different needs, for example models with different gradient strengths. If customer requirements change, upgrades3 to existing systems within the platform are planned, including the replacement of a 60 cm bore scanner with a 70 cm version directly at the point of use. This level of upgradeability can reduce costs and allow regular scanner operation to resume more quickly.
- The Magnetom Flow. Platform with 60 cm bore size is not available for sale in the U.S.A. The Magnetom Flow. Platform with 70 cm bore size is currently under development. Their future availability cannot be guaranteed.
- The Magnetom Flow. Platform is equipped with Dry-Cool technology, which requires only 0.7 liters of liquid helium for magnetic cooling over the lifetime of the device.
- Fit Upgrades for the Magnetom Flow. Platform are currently under development; they are not for sale in the U.S.A. The future availability cannot be guaranteed.
Source: Siemens Healthineers
03.12.2024
