Lunar launches portable MR

GE Medical Systems Lunar has agreed to distribute a portable MR scanner developed by Carlsbad, CA-based MagneVu. The scanner, called Applause, will be sold into physicians' offices as an aid in managing arthritis patients. It uses a nonhomogeneous magnetic field to image the hand, wrist, and foot. MR promises earlier detection of arthritis, leading potentially to more effective treatment of the disease, according to MagneVu. The compact, portable magnet can be rolled into any exam room. It requires no special office setup or shielding and can be plugged into a wall outlet.