3 Innovations Philips Is Showcasing at RSNA 2024

The Radiological Society of North America (RSNA) is holding its annual meeting in Chicago this week. This event gathers clinicians and technology professionals from around the globe to share insights and present the latest advancements in the medical imaging field.

Among the numerous exhibitors, Philips stands out as a leading player in medtech. During my visit to their booth, I explored the exciting collaborations and innovations they are showcasing at this year’s event.

Expanded Collaboration with AWS

Philips has announced the expansion of its partnership with Amazon Web Services (AWS). This collaboration, which began nearly seven years ago, has led to a strong alliance between the two companies, according to Shez Partovi, Philips' Chief Innovation and Strategy Officer.

One significant project stemming from this partnership is their initiative to develop generative artificial intelligence (AI) tools for Philips’ HealthSuite, an imaging archiving and communication system. Partovi emphasized that the current focus is on transitioning Philips’ integrated diagnostics portfolio to the cloud. "Our customers prefer this because radiology images are large and require substantial storage, which many IT departments prefer not to handle on-site," he explained.

The aim of this collaboration is to streamline diagnostic workflows across different medical specialties, which in turn can lead to improved patient outcomes. To effectively integrate AI into their imaging systems, high-performance computing capabilities are essential. Partovi stated that embedding radiology AI tools in physical locations can be complex and costly, hence the shift to cloud-based systems.

BlueSeal MRI System

At RSNA 2024, Philips unveiled its new BlueSeal MRI system. This 1.5 Tesla MRI machine operates with significantly less helium compared to conventional models, potentially increasing patient access to MRI scans.

Traditional MRI machines often consume almost 400 gallons of liquid helium to maintain the necessary superconductivity in their magnets, which can restrict their placement within a hospital. The BlueSeal system, on the other hand, only requires 1.8 gallons due to its innovative design that minimizes the need for continuous helium refills.

Furthermore, unlike traditional MRI machines, which utilize a quench pipe to safely vent helium gas, the BlueSeal MRI does not need this feature and is about 2,000 pounds lighter. This reduced weight allows it to be installed on upper floors of hospitals and even in mobile setups.

Additionally, the BlueSeal MRI incorporates Philips’ cloud-based image reading technology. This technology employs AI to facilitate imaging and interpretation right on the scanner. Philips partnered with digital diagnostics firm icometrix and imaging biomarker expert Quibim to enhance disease identification capabilities, such as indications for Alzheimer’s and multiple sclerosis.

CT 5300 System

The latest addition to Philips' offerings at RSNA 2024 is the CT 5300 system, making its North American debut. This CT scanner features advanced AI tools to assist clinicians in their workflows and enhance decision-making abilities. Previously, it had already been deployed in European healthcare settings earlier in the year.

The scanner's innovative camera-based technology improves patient positioning accuracy, saving valuable time for technicians. Additionally, Philips has utilized iterative reconstruction and AI models to boost image quality while significantly reducing radiation exposure. The CT 5300 is designed to emit up to 80% less radiation compared to traditional CT scanners.

Partovi highlighted the importance of this reduction, especially for vulnerable populations, noting that lesser exposure is crucial for children and repeated scans also pose cumulative risks. Moreover, reducing the overall radiation output benefits the environment.

Philips, innovation, medical