GUILDFORD, U.K.—MR Solutions, which introduced cryogen-free MRI scanners in 2012, is now offering a choice of two cryogen-free preclinical scanner ranges: the Flexiscan and Powerscan.
The Flexiscan range is available with multimodality accessories which can be mixed and matched according to research requirements. It is “a flexible MRI system,” according to the company, as it can incorporate integrated multimodality options such as PET or SPECT. The Flexiscan system reportedly requires no specialist knowledge and can be operated simply by running predefined settings. There is no need to materially alter the parameters of the machine.
The Powerscan range is available with adjustable magnetic field strengths ranging from 0.1T to 9.4T. The system allows physicists to alter the hardware, software, pulse sequences and algorithms to customize the capabilities of their preclinical imaging research.
“Our preclinical MRI product ranges now cover the best of both worlds: the Flexiscan, a simple to operate system which is ideally suited to most research laboratories, and a second product family, the Powerscan, for scientists who would like the ability to customize their system’s configuration,” said MR Solutions’ chief executive, Dr. David Taylor.
Both the Flexiscan and Powerscan ranges share the many advantages of being cryogen-free, “not the least of which is the lower price, as being cryogen-free eliminates the need for the large and cumbersome helium cooling system, the emergency venting system to cope with the helium turning to gas, or the expensive building alterations needed to accommodate it,” according to the company.
Another key advantage is that with a stray field of a few centimeters, the scanner can be placed near other scanners and sensitive equipment and does not require its own room. This speeds up transfer times between different scanning technologies.
Both systems can incorporate integrated PET and SPECT imaging solutions, allowing researchers to carry out independent imaging using the PET or SPECT modules, or sequential and simultaneous imaging. Software allows the co-registration of images to maximize the acquisition and quality of imaging data.
