Summary: GE HealthCare has introduced Signa Magnus, a head-only MR scanner designed to advance neuroscience research and overcome the limitations of conventional whole-body MR systems, particularly in studying psychiatric and neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s.

Key Takeaways

  • Signa Magnus is a high-performance head-only MR scanner from GE HealthCare that could expand the field of neuroscience, which has been limited by the performance of conventional whole-body MR systems thus far.
  • This system is designed to advance MR research in complex imaging procedures in neurology, oncology, and psychiatry.

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GE HealthCare has unveiled Signa Magnus, a head-only MR scanner designed to advance neuroscience research. This U.S. FDA 510(k) pending device aims to overcome the limitations of conventional whole-body MR systems, especially in studying psychiatric and neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s.

Revolutionizing MRI for Neurological Disorders

Currently, 43% of the global population suffers from neurological disorders, but only a fraction can be diagnosed by MRI. Signa Magnus is GE HealthCare’s most advanced 3.0T MR imaging device for detailed head-only imaging. It offers clarity for exploring brain microstructure, microvasculature, and function, aiding researchers and clinicians in neurology and oncology.

“With Signa Magnus, we are not just exploring the possibility of providing the tool; we are setting new benchmarks in medical research and future clinical patient care,” says Kelly Londy, CEO, MR GE HealthCare. “This innovation underscores our commitment to R&D and our collaborations with academia, pushing the boundaries of what’s possible in MR imaging. The potential impact of Signa Magnus on patient outcomes and our understanding of the human brain is profound.”

Enhancing Detection with Advanced Gradient Technology

The system features HyperG gradient technology for superior gradient performance and fine detail detection. It uses advanced deep-learning algorithms and an innovative asymmetric gradient design for enhanced diffusion performance. Many existing GE HealthCare 3.0T systems are upgradable to Signa Magnus, reducing capital costs.

In March 2024, the investigational Magnus system was installed at Brigham and Women’s Hospital. Carl-Fredrik Westin, PhD, principal investigator, notes: “With this system, we will be able to measure things that weren’t possible with conventional MRI. We can ask questions we couldn’t ask before.”