Now functional cardiac analysis is performed even faster than before with magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) thanks to a new software module from Siemens: the new "Inline Ventricular Function" (Inline VF) enables full automatic detection of heart contours and their motion during image acquisition. Physicists can accurately evaluate cardiac functioning immediately after the scan. Previously, the image data had to be transferred to post-processing consoles, and frequently contours had to be post-processed manually. Functional data are extremely important for the evaluation of myocardial infarction or myocarditis.
They are also equally necessary when determining indications for ICD implants (implantable cardioverter-defibrillator).
Inline VF is integrated as a software module directly into the acquisition sequence, enabling calculation of functional data already during image acquisition. The heart is localized on MR images automatically; the system detects the inner and outer contours and generates the functional data without additional mouse clicks. Already now MRI is the gold standard for functional cardiac diagnostics, the efficient workflow means that even more patients will be able to benefit from this radiation-free cardiological procedure.
The Inline VF software module is embedded in syngo Beat, which has proven itself as a tool for MRI examinations of the heart. Due to intelligent algorithms, cardiac examinations can be performed in less than 30 minutes even in patients with arrhythmias. Syngo Beat can be used in many ways; for example, to verify myocardial scars (vitality diagnostics), to clarify thoracic pain (stress MRI), to establish differential diagnosis of cardiomyopathies, to evaluate congenital heart diseases, as well as to plan ablations in electrophysiology. Syngo Beat also supports the 3D display of cardiac functions, coronary vessels, and complex congenital heart defects.
For further four-dimensional visualization of cardiac functions Siemens has developed Argus 4D VF. The software allows for the analysis of cardiac malfunctions via a 4D volume display of the heart.
All cardiac and vascular applications are available for Magnetom 1.5T and 3T scanners.
About Siemens Medical Solutions
Siemens Medical Solutions of Siemens AG (NYSE: SI) is one of the worlds largest suppliers to the healthcare industry. The company is known for bringing together innovative medical technologies, healthcare information systems, management consulting, and support services, to help customers achieve tangible, sustainable, clinical and financial outcomes. Recent acquisitions in the area of in-vitro diagnostics - such as Diagnostic Products Corporation and Bayer Diagnostics mark a significant milestone for Siemens as it becomes the first full service diagnostics company. Employing more than 41,000 people worldwide and operating in over 130 countries, Siemens Medical Solutions reported sales of 8.23 billion EUR, orders of 9.33 billion EUR and group profit of 1.06 billion EUR for fiscal 2006 (Sept. 30), according to U.S. GAAP. Further information can be found by visiting www.siemens.com/medical