The Utah MRI Research Center (UMRC) at the University of Utah Health has made a significant advancement in medical imaging with the installation of Utah’s first Siemens Free.Max MRI scanner, which operates at a field strength of 0.55 Tesla. This represents a notable departure from the more commonly used 1.5T or 3T clinical MRI units.
Despite the lower magnetic field, the Free.Max produces high-quality diagnostic images, utilizing cutting-edge artificial intelligence technology to enhance image clarity and detail.
Additionally, this innovative scanner contributes to sustainable practices by minimizing the use of coolant and helium, reducing consumption from over 1,000 liters to just 0.7 liters.
The exploration of low-field MRI technology began several years ago at UMRC, driven by the potential it holds for both clinical and research applications.
The Free.Max is not only versatile in clinical settings but has also been designed to accommodate patient populations that have historically faced challenges with MRI imaging. For instance, patients with metallic joint replacements or orthopedic hardware, who were previously difficult to image, can now benefit from detailed MRI scans that support accurate diagnoses.
One of the standout features of the Free.Max is its 80 cm bore, which is the largest available at the University of Utah. This wider design significantly enhances comfort for patients, particularly those who experience claustrophobia or discomfort during traditional MRI procedures, resulting in reduced anxiety and a decreased number of failed scans.
“The installation of Utah’s first AI-enhanced low-field MRI represents a transformative moment for our clinical practice and research mission,” stated Sam Finlayson, M.D., MPH, MBA, chief clinical officer of University of Utah Health. “This new equipment not only expands access to essential diagnostic imaging but also enhances our research capabilities and serves as a valuable tool for educating future physicians and researchers in cutting-edge, sustainable technology.”
The MAGNETOM Free.Max has already begun conducting clinical scans and is expected to be fully operational by July 1, 2025. Currently, the scanner has been utilized for imaging shoulders, knees, ankles, routine brain scans, spines, and orthopedic hardware. Plans are in place for further testing with contrast and additional limited scan types.
UMRC anticipates a high demand for scans specifically targeting patients with hardware, leveraging the Free.Max’s unique strengths.
The decision to adopt the Free.Max was not solely based on its clinical potential but also on its capacity to enable innovative research collaborations. Numerous research groups are gearing up to transition their projects to this new platform.
In collaboration with the Coil Lab, Rock Hadley, Ph.D., is launching initiatives to develop next-generation MRI coil technologies tailored for the Free.Max. Other research teams are also exploring the integration of low-field MRI with ultrasound applications, thereby broadening the scanner’s functionality across different modalities.
Allison Payne, Ph.D., vice chair for research in the Department of Radiology and Imaging Sciences, expressed enthusiasm about the new technology. “The MRI research team at the University of Utah is eager to leverage the advanced features of the Siemens Free.Max—especially its larger bore size and lower field strength—to innovate in image-guided procedures, enhance cardiovascular health, and, most importantly, address patient-centered imaging needs by expanding access to those who can benefit from MRI.”
Satoshi Minoshima, M.D., Ph.D., chair of the department, emphasized the importance of this installation, stating, “The installation of the Siemens Free.Max marks a major milestone for the university and the state of Utah by positioning UMRC at the forefront of low-field MRI innovation. With advanced AI capabilities, a patient-centric design, and significant research potential, this technology is set to greatly enhance both clinical offerings and research opportunities.”
image source from：attheu
