A new Artificial Intelligence (AI) innovation to help speed up MRI scanning planning time and alleviate pressure on radiology services has been launched into the UK by Canon Medical Systems. Auto Scan Assist utilises Deep Learning and Machine Learning to enhance diagnostic imaging of liver, prostate, and whole-spine examinations to achieve greater efficiencies in delivering patient services.
The specialist software has been designed to help NHS and independent healthcare providers speed up MRI scanning appointments by automating slice alignment for a growing range of anatomical examinations. Early data indicates that Auto Scan Assist can not only reduce the workload burden by up to 80% on MRI radiographers, but also improve overall workflow and the potential number of MR examinations and procedures to be carried out throughout the working day. A 75% reduction in operating time and workflow enhancements also aim to improve patient comfort by reducing overall examination times.
Vanessa Ellis, MRI Modality Manager at Canon Medical Systems UK states: "With UK diagnostic strategies aiming for community-based hubs and centres to catch up on waiting-list backlogs and provide additional capacity for a growing need for front-line imaging procedures, the productivity gains of advanced AI innovation in healthcare technology is vital. This is not about conceptual theory or early research, but real and ready applications that can rapidly help UK healthcare with its greatest challenges. Patients need prompter access to diagnostic services and NHS staff need support to power through their busy working days."
Frédéric Martin, Referring MRI Technician at Gie Var Ouest, an early adopter of Auto Scan Assist in Ollioules, France, using a Canon Medical Vantage Orian MRI scanner states: "After 2 or 3 days of adaption, the team has utmost confidence in the AI automation positioning techniques, which allow them to concentrate on other more rewarding tasks, such as post-processing tasks. Exam time is optimised and no time is wasted. Today, 85% of knee exams are performed using this technique."
The practical applications of Auto Scan Assist include: ProstateLine+ for the automatic slice orientation and positioning for Axial, Sagittal and Coronal planes based upon Pi-Rad Standards, plus details and exact slice orientation and positioning parallel and/or perpendicular to urethra for prostate examinations; LiverLine+ and SURE VOI Liver for automatic slice orientation and positioning for 2D RMC Probe, Visual Prep, MRCP and Liver examinations; and W-SpineLine+ enabling the planning of spine studies quickly and easily, and to set up double-oblique slices to enhance the reproducibility of follow-up exams.
The enhancement of the Auto Scan Assist packages builds on the previously named 'EasyTech' applications for MRI that include automatic planning for spine, knee, and cardiac.
About Canon Medical Systems Corporation
Canon Medical offers a full range of diagnostic medical imaging solutions including CT, X-Ray, Ultrasound, Vascular and MR, as well as a full suite of Healthcare IT solutions, across the globe. In line with our continued Made for Life philosophy, patients are at the heart of everything we do. Our mission is to provide medical professionals with solutions that support their efforts in contributing to the health and wellbeing of patients worldwide. Our goal is to deliver optimum health opportunities for patients through uncompromised performance, comfort and safety features.At Canon Medical, we work hand in hand with our partners - our medical, academic and research community. We build relationships based on transparency, trust and respect. Together as one, we strive to create industry-leading solutions that deliver an enriched quality of life.