New MRI scanner combines cutting-edge technology with reduced operating costs

Siemens Healthcare has expanded its portfolio of magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) systems to include the 1.5-tesla scanner Magnetom Amira(1). The new MRI scanner offers the same technologies that are available on the Siemens flagship MRI systems. Magnetom Amira also stands out against other scanners on account of its lower operating costs. One reason is the new “Eco-Power” technology that enables power savings of up to thirty percent in standby mode compared to when the feature is not activated. By combining high image quality with comparatively low costs per scan, Magnetom Amira meets the requirements of radiology practices, small and medium-sized hospitals and larger facilities that are looking for a system to complement their existing devices.

Magnetom Amira should make it easier for customers to operate their MRI systems efficiently. Many examinations can be scheduled for ten minutes, enabling a large number of patients to undergo scans in routine applications. Siemens offers a comprehensive package of protocols for Magnetom Amira that is optimized for rapid examinations while maintaining high image quality. In addition, DotGO, the latest generation of MRI examination software, simplifies protocol management and offers the right operating sequence for each individual scan to suit requirements. This helps increase the consistency, reproducibility and efficiency of examinations.

Overall operating costs play a key role in using a scanner economically. Magnetom Amira is the first Siemens MRI scanner to be equipped with the “Eco-Power” technology, which monitors and controls the state of the helium that is responsible for cooling the magnet. Activated during standby mode, it monitors the liquefaction cycle and manages the cooling and helium re-liquefaction process more efficiently. This means that a power saving of up to thirty percent can be achieved in standby mode compared to when the feature is not activated. In combination with the “Zero Helium Boil-Off” technology, among others, which prevents the helium from evaporating, Magnetom Amira can help considerably reduce operating costs each year compared to Magnetom Symphony generation MRI systems2.

To enable high diagnostic reliability and patient comfort, Magnetom Amira is equipped with Siemens’ latest applications and syngo MR E11 software architecture. If a hospital runs a Magnetom Amira, with its sixty centimeter patient bore, alongside other Siemens devices, employees can switch seamlessly between the scanners. In addition, most coils can be exchanged between all current 1.5-tesla MRI systems with Tim4G technology, another cost saving potential. Part of the software platform is the “Quiet Suite” technology that helps minimize the loud noises that can be generated during an MRI examination. Optimized gradient switching reduces the sound pressure by up to 97 percent3 during complete neurological and orthopedic examinations, with no compromise in image quality and no prolonged examination times. Some measurements using Magnetom Amira can even be performed inaudible over background noise, which benefits both the clinical staff and the patients.

1 The product mentioned herein is not commercially available. Due to regulatory reasons its future availability cannot be guaranteed.
2 As an example, a comparison based on typical cost structures in Japan shows potential savings in operating costs up to 20,000 euros; savings depend on individual use of the device and other factors and may vary.
3 Compared to same device without “Quiet Suite” technology. Supporting data on file. Results may vary.

For further information on RSNA, please see www.siemens.com/press/rsna2014

Siemens AG (Berlin and Munich) is a global technology powerhouse that has stood for engineering excellence, innovation, quality, reliability and internationality for more than 165 years. The company is active in more than 200 countries, focusing on the areas of electrification, automation and digitalization. One of the world’s largest producers of energy-efficient, resource-saving technologies, Siemens is No. 1 in offshore wind turbine construction, a leading supplier of combined cycle turbines for power generation, a major provider of power transmission solutions and a pioneer in infrastructure solutions as well as automation, drive and software solutions for industry. The company is also a leading provider of medical imaging equipment – such as computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging systems – and a leader in laboratory diagnostics as well as clinical IT. In fiscal 2014, which ended on September 30, 2014, Siemens generated revenue from continuing operations of €71.9 billion and net income of €5.5 billion. At the end of September 2014, the company had around 357,000 employees worldwide. Further information is available on the Internet at www.siemens.com.

Reference Number: PR2014110046HCEN