The Food and Drug Administration has granted 510(k) clearance for Siemens Healthineers' Magnetom Flow.Ace MRI scanner, marking a significant advancement in magnetic resonance imaging technology through its virtually helium-free design. The system represents the company's first 1.5 Tesla MRI platform to feature a closed helium circuit with no quench pipe, dramatically reducing helium dependency compared to conventional MRI devices.
Revolutionary Helium Reduction Technology
The Magnetom Flow.Ace requires only 0.7 liters of liquid helium for magnet cooling over the device's lifetime, a stark contrast to conventional MRI systems that typically consume over 1,000 liters of liquid helium. This dramatic reduction is achieved through the magnet's DryCool technology, which can lower costs and save resources by dramatically reducing dependency on helium refills.
The system's design eliminates the need for a quench pipe, which was previously required to safely allow large amounts of gaseous helium to escape directly into the atmosphere during an emergency shutdown. This innovation, combined with the scanner's compact size, reduces installation requirements and costs compared to other 1.5T MR scanners.
Enhanced Energy Efficiency and Performance
The Magnetom Flow.Ace delivers more than 30% reduction in annual energy consumption compared to Siemens Healthineers' previous generation of MR scanners. The system incorporates an Eco Power Mode feature that automatically deactivates energy-intensive components when they are not needed, further optimizing energy usage.
The scanner utilizes artificial intelligence to support automated workflows while improving image quality and reducing exam times. Deep Resolve image reconstruction technology enables accelerated image acquisition, removes noise, and improves the sharpness of small structures.
Dual-Purpose Design for Human and Veterinary Applications
The 60 cm bore system covers the entire range of MR applications and features a wide range of contour and dedicated MR coils that can be used for various human anatomies. Notably, the Magnetom Flow.Ace is also the first Siemens Healthineers MR scanner to be marketed to the veterinary radiology community.
For veterinary applications, the system includes animal-friendly, high-density contour coils available in three sizes that are flexible and adaptable to different anatomies. These coils contain an integrated BioMatrix Position Sensor that enables automated patient positioning for potentially faster exam setup. A full portfolio of dedicated imaging coils is also available, including coils for the brain and spine.
Market Position and Industry Impact
"With the FDA clearance of the Magnetom Flow.Ace, Siemens Healthineers is pleased to introduce our first helium-free 1.5T MR scanner," said Katie Grant, head of Magnetic Resonance at Siemens Healthineers North America. "This 60 cm bore system is also available for veterinarians, with the same intelligent, high-end technology that we've offered to the general imaging community, at a highly attractive total cost of ownership."
The Magnetom Flow.Ace represents the second virtually helium-free MR platform from Siemens Healthineers, following the 0.55T Magnetom Free platform. The combination of reduced helium dependency, lower energy consumption, and simplified installation requirements positions the system as a cost-effective solution for healthcare facilities seeking advanced MRI capabilities with reduced operational complexity.
