PET/MR Machines – A Comparison
Three imaging companies have produced PET/MR technology that are either in the works, or commercially available. Here they are, at a glance.
Three imaging companies have produced PET/MR technology that are either in the works, or commercially available. Here they are, at a glance:
SIEMENS HEALTHCARE BIOGRAPH MMR
How it works: PET and MR technology is housed in one device, providing a single image. A PET ring detector fits inside a 3T magnet combine, simultaneously acquiring MR anatomical data and PET functional data.
Features: patient only gets scanned once
Claims: Can scan the body in 30 minutes (versus one hour or more for sequential exams). Touts speed, lower radiation dose and greater anatomical data.
Space needed: one room
Available in U.S.? Yes, FDA approval on June 10, 2011
PHILIPS INGENUITY TF SYSTEM
How it works: Places MR and PET scanners almost 10 feet apart, with the patient table in the middle. The table rotates so the patient will be scanned in the exact same position in each machine sequentially. Data are merged via specialized software.
Features: The PET and MR machines can also work independently.
Claims: industry’s first commercially available whole body PET/MR imaging system. Also claims to produce up to 70 percent less ionizing radiation than the PET/CT.
Space needed: one room
Available in the U.S.? No, but it received its European CE Mark in January, 2011
Demonstration:
GE PET/CT + MRI
How it works: combines the data, not the equipment. MR and PET exams are performed sequentially, with a shared patient transport gurney system. Patient remains in same position on the table, moving between rooms/devices. After sequential exams, the GE system merges the data set.
Features: Can also use PET/CT and MRI independently.
Company claims: a financially responsible solution
Available in U.S.? Yes
Space needed: two rooms
Demonstration
GE HealthCare Debuts AI-Powered Cardiac CT Device at ACC Conference
April 1st 2025Featuring enhanced low-dose image quality with motion-free images, the Revolution Vibe CT system reportedly facilitates improved diagnostic clarity for patients with conditions ranging from in-stent restenosis to atrial fibrillation.
The Reading Room Podcast: Current Perspectives on the Updated Appropriate Use Criteria for Brain PET
March 18th 2025In a new podcast, Satoshi Minoshima, M.D., Ph.D., and James Williams, Ph.D., share their insights on the recently updated appropriate use criteria for amyloid PET and tau PET in patients with mild cognitive impairment.
