World’s First Visual Biofeedback Game Solution for Reducing Head Motion Revolutionizes Brain MRI Acquisition

Motion distortions have long been a major drawback in MRI scans, often resulting in lower image quality. Now, a newly-launched software addresses this problem by actively tracking head movement during MRI scans and continuously providing actionable feedback to the operating technicians. This crucial information allows technicians to pinpoint the ideal moment when sufficient usable data has been gathered, guaranteeing that only high-quality images are collected. The software equips technicians with the ability to make informed decisions on the spot, leading to significant time and resource savings.

Turing Medical Technologies (St. Louis, MO, USA) has launched FIRMM-pix, an innovative in-bore visual biofeedback module designed to actively minimize head movement during brain MRI scans. Serving as an enhancement to Turing's existing FIRMM software, FIRMM-pix has the potential to further optimize image acquisition efficiency and data quality. FIRMM-pix works in synergy with FIRMM, taking the solution a step further by providing the patient with visual biofeedback about their head movement.

Image: FIRMM-pix is an innovative module for enhancing brain MRI acquisition efficiency and quality (Photo courtesy of Freepik)

FIRMM-pix integrates biofeedback and gamification to create an engaging in-bore experience that guides patients to remain still, thereby tackling the problem of motion at its root. The premier game, Puppy Dreams, showcases licensed movie content and features a soothing dog as the patient's dependable guide, keeping them aware of any movements during the scan. To alleviate anxiety, the game's content and biofeedback seamlessly blend to help patients successfully complete the scan while remaining calm and still. FIRMM-pix is the only visual biofeedback game solution dedicated to reducing head motion.

"This platform expansion further propels Turing in the direction of synthesizing the next generation of MRI related data analytics and processing through safe, patient-centric software innovation," said Turing President and CEO, Ken Bruener. "By offering the FIRMM-pix solution, we believe we can not only address challenges with image quality, but we can expand the utility of MR in the advanced neuroimaging field."

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Turing Medical Technologies