New MAGNETOM Spectra 3T MRI and ACUSON S1000 ultrasound systems showcased
Siemens Healthcare has presented its latest innovations in diagnostic imaging at the European Congress of Radiology (ECR) in Vienna, Austria. Highlights included the new MAGNETOM® Spectra MRI system, a 3-tesla solution that provides excellent image quality and speed, plus the new ACUSON S1000™, a high-performance ultrasound system that facilitates a wide spectrum of patients, body types and disciplines ranging from radiology and general imaging to obstetrics, gynaecology and paediatric imaging. Both new systems have been designed to expand access to premium imaging performance at an exceptional cost of ownership via Agenda 2013, a Siemens initiative aimed at bolstering its competitiveness.
The MAGNETOM Spectra can be used for a broad spectrum of applications, from diagnosing damaged cartilage in the ankle to dynamic examinations of the abdominal area, cardiac imaging and functional imaging of the brain. To increase productivity, the scanner is equipped with Siemens’ MRI workflow solution Dot (Day optimizing throughput), which allows a fast selection of the best scan strategy, based on the patient’s condition and the clinical indication. In addition, users are guided through the examination, resulting in consistent and reproducible scans across patients. Thanks to the Tim and Dot technologies, high-quality images can be produced in less time.
“The MAGNETOM Spectra employs Tim (Total imaging matrix) 4G technology - the latest Siemens coil generation. This modern array structure allows for a high spatial and temporal resolution plus with good signal-to-noise ratio, Tim 4G delivers outstanding image quality. Until now, images of similar quality could only be produced by 3T high-end systems from the Siemens portfolio, which require a higher investment. Thus, the MAGNETOM Spectra gives even private radiology practices, imaging departments and clinics the chance to benefit from high imaging quality for their clinical routine despite tight budgets and intense time pressure,” states Jane Kilkenny, MRI Product Manager for Siemens Healthcare in the UK.
A further commitment to reducing Total Cost of Ownership is the operating costs of the new MRI scanner. It has a low energy consumption compared to common 3-tesla scanners. Furthermore, the helium used to cool the magnet is contained in a closed loop. The costly gas does not escape and therefore does not need to be refilled. In addition, various components help users speed up the process of MRI examinations. For example, the cable-less direct-connect coils allow for quick and easy setup. Up to 120 coil elements can be combined in a flexible manner. Large scans can be performed in much less time and even large anatomical coverage, up to whole-body scans, can be performed in a single examination without having to reposition the patient or the coils.
Other innovations on show included the MAGNETOM Combi Suite to provide seamless integration between MRI and a therapeutic environment. It is compatible with the latest high-end scanners MAGNETOM Aera (1.5 tesla) and MAGNETOM Skyra (3 tesla).
About ECR:
ECR 2012 took place in Vienna from 1st - 5th March. Agenda 2013 is a global initiative to further strengthen Healthcare Sector's innovative power and competitiveness. Four fields of action have been defined: Innovation, Competitiveness, Regional Footprint, and People Development, with specific measures to be implemented over the next two years.
About Siemens Healthcare
The Siemens Healthcare Sector is one of the world's largest suppliers to the healthcare industry and a trendsetter in medical imaging, laboratory diagnostics, medical information technology and hearing aids. Siemens offers its customers products and solutions for the entire range of patient care from a single source – from prevention and early detection to diagnosis, and on to treatment and aftercare. By optimising clinical workflows for the most common diseases, Siemens also makes healthcare faster, better and more cost-effective. Siemens Healthcare employs some 51,000 employees worldwide and operates around the world. In fiscal year 2011 (to September 30), the Sector posted revenue of 12.5 billion euros and profit of around 1.3 billion euros. For further information please visit: www.siemens.com/healthcare.
For more information or images please contact:
Marc Gossage / Charlotte Rowland
Media Safari
T: 01225 471202
E: charlotter@mediasafari.co.uk
Siemens Healthcare
Laura Bennett
T: 01276 696374
E: laura.bennett@siemens.com
W: http://www.siemens.co.uk/healthcare
