Ultra-High Field Clinical MRI Scanner Now Available

A new 7T MRI with a magnet approximately five times more powerful than most clinical systems can image anatomy, function, metabolism, and microvasculature with extreme resolution and detail.

The GE Healthcare (GE; Little Chalfont, United Kingdom) SIGNA 7.0T system combines a broad range of advanced technology and imaging methods for both research and clinical purposes across a host of neurologic and musculoskeletal diseases. The system features GE UltraG gradient technology, a powerful whole-body gradient coil that meets the demands of ultra-high field imaging speed and resolution, advanced diffusion, and functional brain imaging.

This system also features the SIGNAWorks software platform with state-of-the-art applications, such as deep learning-based tools that include AIR x brain for automated slice positioning, and Silent MRI, which enables seamless protocol translation between GE MR systems. In addition, the SIGNA 7.0T is equipped with the Precision radiofrequency (RF) transmit and receive architecture, which enables improved image quality and parallel transmission. An advanced knee and cartilage module allows ultra-high-resolution anatomical visualization to measure quantitative changes in anatomy due to disease.

“We are thrilled to add SIGNA 7.0T to our portfolio. This new scanner is a critical tool in research for neurological disorders like Alzheimer’s disease and mild traumatic brain injury,” said Jie Xue, president and CEO of GE Healthcare MR. “Now clinicians will have access to the power of ultra-high field imaging combined with the ultra-high-performance gradients to translate research advances into new clinical diagnostic tools and potential treatment options.”

“We were immediately impressed with the quality and stability of the SIGNA 7.0T system,” said Professor Michela Tosetti, PhD, of the University of Pisa (Italy) , who scanned with the SIGNA 7.0T at GE Healthcare MR headquarters. “We are keen to upgrade our system to this new configuration, continuing our relationship with GE to realize the promise of this technology to meet our imaging goals.”

MRI scanners can have ultraweak, weak, medium, strong, and superstrong magnetic fields, as measured in Tesla units. Highest-quality scans are usually taken with the aid of superconducting magnetic systems that generate very strong magnetic fields, providing the highest image resolution. The high-field systems require liquid helium to keep the superconducting magnets cool.