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 multi-modality accessories which can be mixed and matched according to research requirements. It is a flexible MRI system as it can incorporate integrated multi-modality options such as PET or SPECT. The Flexiscan system requires no specialist knowledge and can be operated simply by running pre-defined 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 customise the capabilities of their preclinical imaging research.

MR Solutions’ Chief Executive, Dr David Taylor, said: “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 customise their system’s configuration.”

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. 

Another key advantage is that with a stray field of a few centimetres, 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 maximise the acquisition and quality of imaging data.

In 2012, MR Solutions developed the world’s first commercially available high-performance 3T preclinical MRI bench-top scanner using superconducting magnets, which eliminates the need for liquid helium cooling. MR Solutions further enhanced this development with the release of innovative, high-resolution PET and SPECT modules which can be added to create integrated multi-modality systems. A more powerful 7T range followed in 2014 and the company has already announced a 9.4T MRI scanner for delivery at the end of the year.

MR Solutions, a winner of the prestigious Queen’s Award for Enterprise 2016 for innovation in the UK, has over 30 years’ experience and in excess of 1000 installations across the world. This includes sales of their MRI spectrometers. Its scanners are renowned for their excellence in terms of superior soft tissue contrast and molecular imaging ability.

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