Siemens' new Total Imaging Matrix (TIM) technology now allows whole-body imaging without the need for repositioning coils or the patient.

The system consists of 7 coils, covering the whole body. Five coils cover the anterior body (head coil, neck coil, 2 body coils, and peripheral leg coils). Two coils cover the posterior body (cervical spine and whole spine).

Together, the coils provide a total of 76 individual coil elements.

Each coil is extremely light - less than 950g - and can be fastened in position using Velcro straps.

TIM has 3 modes of operation: CP, Dual and Triple.

CP mode provides 32 array elements with 8 RF channels (3 coil elements are connected to 1 RF channel).

Dual mode provides 76 array elements and 18 RF channels (3 coil elements are connected to 2 RF channels). Eighteen RF channels are used in Dual mode for anatomical requirements.

Triple mode provides 76 array elements with 32 RF channels (3 coil elements are connected to 3 RF channels).

CP mode provides the cheapest TIM option - Triple mode is the most expensive.

Siemens' Total Imaging Matrix (TIM) whole body imaging option will also be available for the Magnetom Trio 3T system.

Siemens now completely owns the magnet manufacturer Oxford Magnet Technology Ltd (OMT). The company will now be overseen by the new managing director, Arthur Kaindl.

Whole Body Imaging

Siemens unveiled their latest system, the Magnetom Avanto 1.5T.

The new Total Imaging Matrix (TIM) technology, allows whole-body imaging of patients up to 205cm in height within a single examination.

As such, the Magnetom Avanto will primarily be aimed at screening centres.

Routine delivery will begin in April 2004.

Magnet Improvements

New magnet technology provides greater homogeneity of the static magnetic field.

The improved "cold head" has also virtually eliminated cryogen boil-off. The time between refills is now estimated to exceed 10 years.

Parallel Imaging

Siemens parallel imaging technology (IPAT) now operates at up to factor 12.

Their extended, 3D parallel imaging system, IPAT², now allows parallel imaging in 3 gradient directions.

Gradients

The gradients systems have been redesigned and now provide extended coverage of 50cm.

New noise reduction techniques are also employed, giving maximum noise levels of 99dbA.

The two gradient speed options are the QEngine, with a strength of 33mT/m and slew rate of 125mT/m/s and the SQEngine, with a strength of 45mT/m and slew rate of 200mT/m/s.

The gradient redesign also counteracts the peripheral nerve stimulation of the Sonata gradient systems.

Upgrades

Existing Magnetom Symphony systems will be upgradeable to utilise the new Total Imaging Matrix (TIM) technology. The body coverage, however, cannot be extended to the full 205cm - this will remain at 156cm.