Siemens plans release of noncontrast-based imaging technique

Article

Siemens Medical Solutions plans to begin marketing by year-end a hardware-software combination that supports arterial spin labeling, a noncontrast-based imaging technique, as part of an integrated package for the assessment of ischemic stroke.

Siemens Medical Solutions plans to begin marketing by year-end a hardware-software combination that supports arterial spin labeling, a noncontrast-based imaging technique, as part of an integrated package for the assessment of ischemic stroke.

The technology, currently in development, will allow a comprehensive evaluation of ischemic disease, according to Jeffrey M. Bundy, Ph.D., senior director of MR R&D for Siemens. It will correlate structural and functional data and diffusion and perfusion data obtained not only through arterial spin labeling but through methods including blood oxygen level-dependent contrast.

"It's not a stand-alone technique, but it will be integrated into other tools that we already have as a product," Bundy said.

Siemens will acquire these data using 3T, improved radiofrequency, and a 12-channel head coil. A 32-channel coil is in development. The company also plans to offer a 1.5T version, which will use similar technologies, including a 12-channel head coil.

"To do this, you need all the pieces," he said.

Arterial spin labeling visualizes blood flow without enhancement by contrast agents. The ability to do so depends on having enough signal to noise to distinguish changes in tissue magnetization resulting from blood versus tissue water. The increased signal-to-noise ratio allows for a more precise visualization of the affected brain area than can be achieved with conventional methods, according to Ionnis Panagiotelis, Ph.D., market manager for the ultra high-field segment at Siemens.

Siemens is releasing the brain assessment package with arterial spin labeling initially to luminaries in academia and clinical practice who have served previously as research collaborators. The goal will be to gain experience with the technology and validate its clinical utility. A broader commercial release is expected by the end of the calendar year.

"Providing it within our standard neuro tools will allow customers to integrate arterial spin labeling very quickly and easily in their daily workflow," Bundy said.

Recent Videos
What New Research Reveals About Computed Tomography and Radiation-Induced Cancer Risk
What New Interventional Radiology Research Reveals About Treatment for Breast Cancer Liver Metastases
New Mammography Studies Assess Image-Based AI Risk Models and Breast Arterial Calcification Detection
Can Deep Learning Provide a CT-Less Alternative for Attenuation Compensation with SPECT MPI?
Employing AI in Detecting Subdural Hematomas on Head CTs: An Interview with Jeremy Heit, MD, PhD
Pertinent Insights into the Imaging of Patients with Marfan Syndrome
What New Brain MRI Research Reveals About Cannabis Use and Working Memory Tasks
Current and Emerging Legislative Priorities for Radiology in 2025
How Will the New FDA Guidance Affect AI Software in Radiology?: An Interview with Nina Kottler, MD, Part 2
A Closer Look at the New Appropriate Use Criteria for Brain PET: An Interview with Phillip Kuo, MD, Part 2
Related Content
© 2025 MJH Life Sciences

All rights reserved.