Transforming MRI Technology: From Helium-Dependent to Cryogen-Free Systems

Since its introduction in 1980, when Siemens installed the first commercial high-field MRI, the "Magnetom 63 scanner," at the Mallinckrodt Institute of Radiology in St. Louis, MRI technology has undergone significant evolution. Originally a revolutionary instrument for the detailed visualization of soft tissues, its relevance has increased phenomenally, and today it is considered the preferred method for diagnosing nearly every disease.

In 1987, when Siemens Installed India’s first high-field MRI, requiring a substantial setup including a 12,000 square foot facility that used huge space just for? power management and helium liquefaction.

Over the years, advancements in MRI components such as magnet shielding, RF systems, gradient systems, and cryogenic systems have significantly enhanced functionality and practicality. However, the dependency on liquid helium for cooling has posed persistent challenges, exacerbated by its cost, volatility, and scarcity. The 2023 geopolitical tensions further escalated helium costs, impacting MRI accessibility.

At Sequoia Healthcare, we are dedicated to enhancing global access to advanced medical imaging technologies, particularly for under-served populations. Recognizing the limitations imposed by helium, we have shifted towards helium-free MRI technologies. In collaboration with MS Ningbo Jansen NMR Technology, we've developed a cryogen-free magnet based MRI? system that uses direct contact cryocoolers for efficient heat exchange, maintaining essential magnet characteristics and compatibility with existing MRI protocols without major modifications

Key Features of the Sequoia Clarity 1.5

Commercial Availability:

The Sequoia Clarity 1.5, featuring the innovative made in India Jansen Magnet, is available in both 60 cm and 70 cm bore configurations.

Maintenance and Logistics:

Completely eliminates the need for helium, significantly reducing operational costs and complexities. It is suitable for installation globally, even in remote or high-altitude locations like Ladakh.

Installation and Safety Enhancements:

• No need for quench pipes simplifies installation and improves aesthetics while reducing ceiling height requirements.
• The design enhances safety by avoiding pressurized gases and cryogenic liquids, eliminating the need for PED certifications.

Mobility and Intelligent System Management:

• The system’s mobility features allow for easy transport and automated ramping up/down.
• Built-in intelligence facilitates automatic adjustments during power outages or faults, with a rapid recovery capability post-quench without engineer intervention. It can switch to tap water cooling if necessary.

Innovative Applications and Future Potential:

• Enables new applications such as tilting or standing MRI for advanced load-bearing studies.

Comparison with Other Systems:

• The Sequoia Clarity 1.5 uses a truly Zero-Helium technology and is a non-pressure vessel, which contrasts sharply with other systems that may contain up to 7 liters of helium and require high-pressure containment and PED certification.

The Sequoia Clarity 1.5 is set to redefine the landscape of medical imaging, making advanced diagnostics more accessible and sustainable. This represents a significant leap towards a future where medical imaging solutions are not only effective but also more environmentally and logistically feasible.

Sequoia Healthcare Limited Innowave Healthcare Private limited 西门子医疗 GE医疗 Dr. Sanjay Arora Dr.Sandeep Kawlra Kabir Mahajan Sarvadeep Sachdev Vidur Mahajan, MD, MBA Dr. Manoj Kumar Shah Viswanathan Santhanagopalan Debasis Kundu priyanka Awasarmol Mathesh G S Anoop Mehrotra Anup Raina Sudhir Bahl Ameera Shah Alok Bhardwaj Asim Akhtar Warsi Prathamesh Patkar Dr. Sanjay GUPTA Dr. Rajat Arora Tejasvi Surya Shweta Manchanda Dr. SUSHRUT ALMAST Puneet Aggarwal Rajeev Chandra Hari Narayana Reddy Dr.Deepak Patkar Bino John Dr. Abhinav Jain Dr.Raja Dutta Ankur Gadodia DR.PRASHANT SARIN Arjun Kalyanpur Amit Kakar MD ANMOL NIGAM Dr.Pragati Sinha Manoj Kumar Singh Shani Singh @ Dr Sumer Sethi Ishan Goel Sunil Khurana Piyush Goyal Dr Sanjay Dhawan Mohammad Zare Mehrjardi, MD, IBR, EDiR, DBA Anup Mam Ramli L.