Siemens Healthcare announced today that its MAGNETOM Amira 1.5 Tesla MR system has received FDA clearance. The system has many of the same features found in Siemens' flagship MR systems, but it has lower operating costs.

This system is the first to include Siemens' new Eco-Power technology, which puts the system into stand-by mode and allows for power savings of up to 30 percent. It works by monitoring and controlling the magnet-cooling helium.

The Eco-Power technology is used in conjunction with other features such as the Zero Helium Boil-Off technology in order to prevent helium evaporation.
The system also includes protocols that have the potential to shorten many of the exams. Its DotGo software simplifies protocol management and helps the clinician determine the correct operating sequence for each scan, which increases exam consistency and reproducibility.

The MAGNETOM Amira is also equipped with the Syngo MR E11 software architecture to allow for better patient comfort. Facilities that use the system with its 60 cm patient bore and other Siemens systems, are able to switch easily between scanners.

The facilities are also able to share many of the coils between all of the current 1.5T MR systems because of Siemens' exclusive Tim 4G technology.

The system's software platform also includes the Quiet Suite technology, which lessens the noise during an exam. Some facilities are even able to conduct some measurements inaudibly over background noise.

The system was designed for a range of facilities including radiology practices, small- and medium-sized hospitals, and also larger facilities that are looking for an MR system to complement their other systems.

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