Tuesday, June 06, 2023
GE HealthCare has recently announced the FDA clearance and launch of Sonic DL, an innovative deep learning-based technology designed to expedite image acquisition in magnetic resonance imaging (MRI). Sonic DL introduces new imaging possibilities, such as high-quality cardiac MRI in a single heartbeat, thereby expanding GE HealthCare's portfolio of AI-enabled solutions.
The adoption of cardiac MRI, considered the gold standard for evaluating heart structure and function in cardiovascular disease, has been limited globally due to lengthy exam times. Traditional MRI acquisition speed is insufficient to capture real-time heart contractions, resulting in the need for multiple heartbeats and breath-holding. This process is time-consuming, compromises image quality, and can be arduous for patients. Hence, there is a pressing need for faster, higher-quality, and more comfortable cardiac MRI.
In response, GE HealthCare has introduced Sonic DL specifically for cardiac MRI. Leveraging deep learning technology, Sonic DL enables scanning up to 12 times faster than conventional methods, facilitating rapid cardiac MR functional imaging within a single heartbeat. This advancement minimizes or eliminates the requirement for repetitive patient breath-holding, simplifying procedures and expanding access to cardiac MRI for patients with arrhythmias or difficulty holding their breath.
Dr. Gianluca Pontone, Director of Perioperative Cardiology and Cardiovascular Imaging Dept. at Centro Cardiologico Monzino, highlights the significance of Sonic DL, stating that it addresses the unique needs of patients who face challenges with breath-holding, advanced heart failure, or arrhythmias. By ensuring a smoother and more comfortable experience, Sonic DL improves patient comfort during MRI exams. Additionally, its ability to significantly reduce scan times mitigates motion artifacts, leading to more accurate and reliable diagnoses.
The introduction of Sonic DL not only benefits patients but also enhances productivity in radiology departments. By reducing cardiac MRI scan times by up to 83%, Sonic DL streamlines workflows, reduces backlogs, and alleviates the burden on staff. This cutting-edge technology tracks the beating heart with exceptional image quality and overcomes limitations associated with traditional acceleration techniques.
Jie Xue, President & CEO, Global MR at GE HealthCare, highlights the transformative impact of Sonic DL, emphasizing its ability to expand patient access and improve diagnostic value. GE HealthCare's deep learning technology, AIR Recon DL, has already benefited over 10 million patients, and Sonic DL is expected to further solidify the company's leadership in leveraging AI to advance healthcare globally.
The development of Sonic DL demonstrates GE HealthCare's commitment to advancing MRI through state-of-the-art AI deep learning technology. The goal is to extend this technology across all anatomies. The combined offering of Sonic DL and AIR Recon DL represents a comprehensive solution suite for improved speed and image quality in MRI examinations.
Source: businesswire.com
